Access Credit Union is investing $250,000 in Manitoba schools through its 2026 Focused Funding Grant, an initiative aimed this year at strengthening recreation and wellness programs for students.
Now in its second year, the Focused Funding Grant will provide $25,000 each to 10 K-12 public schools across the province. The funding is intended to enhance programs, activities and spaces that contribute to student well-being, with an emphasis on creating safe, supportive environments where students and communities can connect and thrive.
Access Credit Union said recreation and wellness were selected as the 2026 focus after seeing a strong and growing number of grant applications in these areas in recent years, particularly those centred on student wellness spaces and recreation needs.
The credit union noted that many schools continue to rely on aging or limited equipment and facilities, while others face space constraints — especially in Manitoba, where weather can limit outdoor activity and gathering areas. Targeted funding, they said, can help introduce new recreation options, increase participation, enhance movement during school breaks and improve accessibility.
Rural and lower-income schools may face additional challenges due to fewer available recreation resources, making school-based investment especially important. Access said the grant is intended to help strengthen spaces that serve not only students but also the wider community.
“Investments in school recreation and wellness extend well beyond the school walls,” the credit union said, noting that gyms, playgrounds and outdoor spaces are often shared with families and community groups. Enhancing these areas helps build stronger connections between schools, families and local organizations while promoting inclusive access.
“We saw tremendous interest from across Manitoba last year and we’re proud to once again offer a program that speaks to the specific needs in our communities,” said Curt Letkeman, board chair of Access Credit Union. “By focusing on recreation and wellness, we can truly make an impactful difference, remove barriers and create lasting opportunities for children to grow and develop.”
The grant is open to all K-12 public schools in Manitoba. Applications may be submitted by parent advisory committees, school administrators, teachers or school divisions. Projects must be pre-approved by the applicable school division and supported by a letter from the school principal or vice-principal.
Grant applications open Feb. 16 and close March 31. Successful schools will be notified in the fall, followed by a public announcement.
Access Credit Union said the Focused Funding Grant will rotate its area of focus from year to year, guided by ongoing conversations with community organizations and local leaders. Those insights help ensure the program remains relevant, responsive and impactful while allowing support to be shared across as many Manitoba communities as possible.
