RecAssist
Removing barriers to participation in physical activity

RecAssist - a system of financial support that subsidizes the cost of municipal recreation and culture programs - is available to low income individuals and families in Vaughan.

Recognizing that participation in leisure programs enhances one's quality of life, Vaughan’s Recreation and Culture Department is committed to providing active living opportunities to residents in a fair and accessible way. Based on the values of human dignity, respect, and social justice, RecAssist strives to foster an environment of cooperation and inclusiveness that creates recreation opportunities and experiences for individuals and families of every income level.

To qualify for RecAssist, you must:

1. Have a combined total family income less than the Low Income Cut-offs (LICO).

2. Submit a completed RecAssist application form with the previous year's income tax return (Notice of Assessment) attached for all income sources.

3. Provide proof of City of Vaughan residency via a copy of a property tax bill, utility bill, driver’s license or similar documentation with your address on it.

Dependants under the age of 18 cannot apply as individuals; a parent or legal guardian must complete an application on their behalf. Postsecondary students who are enrolled full time in a college or university are not eligible to apply. Eligible applicants may be put on a RecAssist waiting list.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How much assistance can I and members of my immediate family receive?
Once approved each family member is eligible to receive up to $200 of assistance per individual during a 12 month period.

When can I register for a program?
Once you receive your fee assistance confirmation please check program registration dates in the Recreation Guide or online at www.RecEnrollVaughan.ca

Can I apply for fee assistance through online registration or IVR?
No. You can only apply by phoning 905.832.8500.

Does approval of my application guarantee my program choice?
Registration in programs is dependent on space availability - not fee assistance approval.

Can I use my fee assistance towards my child’s activities?
No. Your individual fee assistance cannot be transferred to other individuals or family members.

Do I have to contribute some of my own funds along with my fee assistance to pay for a program?
It depends on which program you choose. Basic Level Programs – no payment required unless program fee exceeds $200.00; Value Added Programs - 25% payment required; Premium Programs – 50% payment required.

Once my fee assistance is used up can I receive additional funding?
If you continue to meet all of the eligibility you can apply for the program every 12 months.
Applications for the next year may be made thirty days prior to the end of your current enrolment period.

To be considered for RecAssist, you must submit the following documentation:

1. A completed RecAssist application form (available at any recreation facility).

2. Proof of residency in Vaughan (e.g., a driver's license, recent utility bill or lease agreement).

3. Proof of total family net income and legal responsibility for all dependants listed on the application.

All items must be submitted via mail to the City of Vaughan Recreation and Culture Department at 2141 Major Mackenzie Drive, Vaughan, ON, L6A 1T1, attention RecAssist, or by fax to 905.832.8550.

For additional information on RecAssist, call 905.832.8500.

RecAssist Application Form