Poverty Awareness in York Region

PACC endorses Operation Sparrow. Although PACC would like to see an end for the need of programs like this - we feel all kids deserve to be able to play on the same "playing field" - and need those opportunities today!

What is it?

Operation Sparrow enables children and youths from age 3 up to 18 living in Newmarket or Aurora to take part in ongoing organized activities and cultural activities - alongside their peers- - when their parents or guardians cannot afford to pay.

Currently the roster of program choices includes karate,theatre school,dance, art classes and some transportation.

Mission Statement:

Operation Sparrow’s aim is to promote and facilitate the participation of children ages 3 – 18 in physical and cultural activities regardless of their ability to pay for services.

How do I apply?

An application must be filled out. Some conditions apply. You may pick up an application form at any of the designated pick up points including: The Town of Newmarket office(Mulock Dr,)Robinson’s Karate (Aurora and Newmarket locations) the Newmarket library, and Canadian Mental Health Association (Aurora, Yonge St office). 

Or!

Call the number below or send us your address or email address to tp.entertainment@hotmail.com and we’ll send you one.

Applications are available online below. Guidelines accompany the application and must be adhered to. All applicable information must accompany your submission in order to be considered.

Please note available spots in each activity offered by Operation Sparrow are given based on “most in need” as decided by our Board. Placements are limited. Should you need transportation only, please indicate on the application.

How do I qualify?

You qualify based on "most in need" as determined by our board. A photocopy proof of income and a short letter outlining what you hope your child will gain from the program must accompany your application.Particular attention has been made to make the application process be as least intrusive as possible.

How Else?

You may also qualify by being referred to us by a group, organization, or agency recognized by The Operation Sparrow Executive Board. Those groups recognized as such are determined by The Board.

Now What?

Submit your forms by mailing them to the address provided in care of Operation Sparrow: 130 Davis Dr. Newmarket, On, Unit # 25, Box # 84 L3Y – 2N1

Call the ‘Sparrowline at 905-716-1447 or call 905-836-7931 for more.

Okay, I did all that!!

Great! Now relax, it may take the Board awhile to get to your application. Board members meet regularly and will review all applications with due diligence. Agreement on each successful applicant will be made by consensus.

The Board can decide to approve an application in whole or in part, deny it or defer it if more information is required. All decisions made by the Board are final and may be communicated verbally,in writing to the address or email given.

All information collected by Operation Sparrow is kept confidential and all Board members observe a strict code of conduct as witnessed in our pledge which each applicant must also make, as part of showing their commitment to participating.

Who sits on the Board?

In addition to PACC Chair Tom Pearson, others include a town councilor,representatives from private businesses and other community leaders.

A full Board list may be made upon request.

Applicants agree to abide by the Sparrow Creed and the principles of excellence. Both the providers and Operation Sparrow reserve the right to ask those repeatedly breaching the creed to leave the program.

Creed

• I intend to develop myself in a positive manner, and to avoid anything that would reduce my mental growth or my physical health.
• I intend to develop self-discipline, in order to bring out the best in myself and others.
• I intend to use what I have learned in class constructively and defensively, to help myself and my fellow man, and never to be abusive or offensive.

• Modesty
• Courtesy
• Integrity
• Self Control
• Perseverance
• Indomitable Spirit

Mailing address: 130 Davis Dr. Newmarket, On, Unit # 25, Box # 84 L3Y – 2N1

Call the "Sparrowline" at 905-716-1447 for more.