FRESNO, Calif. (FOX26) \u2014 The City of Fresno is taking steps to make youth sports and enrichment programs more accessible with the launch of a new Youth Sports Scholarship Program. The initiative, backed by $50,000 in Measure P funding, aims to reduce financial barriers for local youth participating in activities like sports, dance, and other recreational programs.<\/p>\n
City leaders, including Councilmember Tyler Maxwell and Mayor Jerry Dyer, announced the program Wednesday at Fort Miller Middle School alongside educators and community partners dedicated to expanding opportunities for Fresno youth.<\/p>\n
\u201cAccess to youth sports should not be denied because of financial barriers at home,\u201d said Councilmember Maxwell. \u201cThis investment is about creating opportunity, making sure young people have the resources they need to stay active, engaged, and connected to their community.\u201d<\/p>\n
Mayor Dyer added, \u201cYouth sports are more than recreation, they help keep kids on the right path. Investing in structured, positive programs builds discipline, teamwork, and sets young people up for success both on and off the court.\u201d<\/p>\n
The program will provide scholarships of up to $300 per eligible youth to cover program fees and equipment costs. <\/p>\n
Fresno-based nonprofit organizations in good standing serving youth ages 3\u201317 are encouraged to apply for funding to administer the scholarships. <\/p>\n
Selected nonprofits may also request up to 15% of funds for administrative costs, bringing the total award to $57,500.<\/p>\n
\u201cTeens are often the most overlooked when resources get tight, even though they\u2019re facing some of the greatest challenges,\u201d said Jesus Garcia, CEO of High Performance Academy. \u201cThis Youth Scholarship Program ensures they don\u2019t lose access at the moment they need it most, and that investment benefits our entire city.\u201d<\/p>\n
Nonprofits interested in applying must submit applications by Feb. 11, 2026, at 3 p.m. PST. <\/p>\n