TORONTO, Nov. 18 /CNW/ - The Canadian Institute of Child Health (CICH) is pleased to award Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities the 2010 Corporate Award for its Canadian Tire Jumpstart program. The award recognizes broadly-based programs that support the health and well-being of children in Canada and their families.

"We are very honoured to receive this award. Today in Canada, one in three families cannot afford to enroll their child in a sport or recreation activity. The Jumpstart program is dedicated to changing that statistic," said Dan Thompson, President, Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities.

Canadian Tire Jumpstart is helping kids in communities everywhere - including Ottawa, where breakthrough programs, such as Jumpstart I love to Skate, are giving kids the opportunity to participate. The program is a partnership with the City of Ottawa and the Ottawa Senators that will teach 400 children from families that are new to Canada how to skate. "When kids are active, their lives become richer. They grow as individuals. They build self-confidence and greater self-esteem. These are benefits that can last a lifetime," continued Thompson.

Launched in 2005, Canadian Tire Jumpstart is a national, charitable program that helps financially disadvantaged kids participate in organized sport and recreation by covering registration, equipment and/or transportation costs.

"We are well aware of the importance of access to recreation and sports for all children and youth in Canada, and the difference it can make in the life of a child," said Dr. Robin Moore-Orr, Chair, Canadian Institute of Child Health, Board of Directors. "Canadian Tire Jumpstart has helped thousands of children who otherwise could not participate."

Thompson says he "is very thankful for the on-going generosity and support from customers, employees, dealers, vendors and Canadian Tire Corporation who made it possible for Jumpstart to help more than 270,000 kids in just five short years."

The Award will be presented at the annual The Crayons & Cravats Gala this evening in Ottawa. The Gala is an annual fundraising event that supports CICH's efforts to promote and protect the health and well-being of each and every child and youth in Canada. The Gala is held annually in celebration of National Child Day which is recognized and celebrated around the world.

Since 1977, the Canadian Institute of Child Health has made a difference to the health of Canada's children. From research and policy recommendations to community development and resource building, the Institute has touched the life of virtually every child in Canada.