The Town of Rocky Mountain House has rolled out its new Recreation Facility Access Program (RFAP) offering eligible families a 50 per cent discount on admissions and programs at local recreation facilities.

To apply, eligible families can visit the Clearwater Regional Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) office to confirm their eligibility and receive a Facility Access Card, valid for one year. The office is located at 5110-50 Ave in Rocky (formerly the Post House) and is open Monday to Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Each Access Card issued provides a 50 per cent discount on drop-in admissions, program registrations, and memberships at the Rocky Regional Recreation Facility and the Aquatic Centre. Families will receive 24 drop-in admissions, three program or lesson registrations, and one membership to the Aquatic or Rec Centre, depending on availability.

Eligibility for the RFAP is based on family income and household size. Families are eligible if their total annual income, as shown on their most recent income tax return, falls within the following thresholds:

• For a single person, $35,000 or less
• For two people, $45,000 or less
• For three people, $47,500 or less
• For four people, $50,000 or less
• For five people, $52,500 or less
• For larger households, $52,000 plus $2,500 for each additional person

The Rocky Credit Union Co-op Aquatic Centre is among the facilities participating in the town’s new Recreation Facility Access Program. (94.5 Rewind Radio stock photo)

The program, approved by council on Dec. 3, 2024, aims to improve wellness, enhance residents’ quality of life, and strengthen the community socially and economically. Council members noted the initiative would have a minimal financial impact, as the qualifying families are likely those who would not otherwise use the facilities.

Families can apply with or without a referral. Without a referral, they must provide proof of income; with a referral, they will submit a form from an agency confirming their eligibility.

Access Cards are non-transferable, and lost cards will not be replaced. Officials add the RFAP discount cannot be combined with other offers.

The program is expected to benefit families who may otherwise be unable to afford access to recreation, promoting inclusivity and community wellness.

The bylaw was modeled after a similar program in Camrose, where FCSS reported that about 180 people accessed the program last year.

Another proposal was discussed during the Dec. 3 council meeting which would lower the eligibility threshold for free recreation memberships for seniors from 75 to 65. The estimated lost revenue from the proposal was estimated to be nearly $22,000, which would be absorbed by the town. However, it would be buffered by the town’s agreement with Clearwater County which contributes funds to help operate recreation facilities.

Wes Amendt, director of Recreation and Community Services, suggested waiting a year to assess the number of passes issued and reconsidering a separate bylaw for seniors at that time.