What is the No One Left Behind subsidy?
Scouts Canada’s No One Left Behind subsidy program strives to ensure every child has the opportunity to maximize their potential. Every youth deserves the opportunity to build their character by means of the Scouting movement to become good citizens better prepared for success in the world.
Scouts Canada believes all Canadian youth should have the opportunity to participate in Scouting.
We believe each and every young person can make a meaningful contribution to creating a better world!
Scouts are recognized around the world as community ambassadors. Our Scouting Community recognizes that the differences each individual has to offer is an asset, diversity is an asset. Cost should not be a barrier. We want Scouting to be available to all Canadian youth across our country, regardless of circumstance.
How many youth received funding from NOLB in 2020-21?
Over 2,500 youth from low-income families last year, offering subsidized membership fees, uniforms costs, outdoor equipment and camping gear to girls and boys aged 5-26 across the country.
Just over $474,000 was distributed to youth across Canada in 2020-21.
Do 100% of the donations made to both NOLB and NOLB Participation subsidy go directly to the youth?
Yes! 100% of funds go towards covering costs for youth!
How does Scouts Canada determine if a family qualifies?
The needs test will apply Statistics Canada’s Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) metric that is updated annually. LICO is used by many service providers and levels of government to determine recreational subsidies. LICO calculates financial need based upon a family’s size (number of family members) and household income.
For more information on LICO Statistics Canada Low Income cut-off's
Can families who do not fall within the Low Income Cut-off (LICO) metric qualify based solely on circumstance?
Yes! There is an exceptions process in place that ensures that youth are not denied a Scouting experience should unique circumstances exist. This is done on a case-by-case basis.
What is the difference between the NOLB Membership fee subsidy and the NOLB participation subsidy?
The No One Left Behind Membership Fee Subsidy is available for youth from low-income households to reduce the National Fee.
The No One Left Behind Participation Subsidy also for youth in low income households provided to offset the cost to youth and their families of participating in Scouting activities. Examples include the cost of purchasing uniforms, program materials, outdoor equipment and camp fees.
The difference in addition to the purpose of the funds is the application process. See below for how to apply for both.
How do families apply for NOLB?
Applications for the No One Left Behind registration subsidy are now submitted during the registration process and are processed immediately. You can register your youth in Scouting Here. Select the Apply for Subsidy option within the registration process to submit your NOLB application.
The NOLB Participation Subsidy is applied for directly through a parent's MyScouts account.
No One Left Behind Participation subsidies may be provided up to a maximum of $200 per individual applicant per reason and within a calendar year. We will review applications for more than $200 for a specific reason like a special adventure. If your application is being reviewed, you will be notified automatically, and it may take up to 3 to 4 weeks before you are approved, and the Group receives the funds. All funds are sent to the Group within 30 days and the Group is notified of the disbursed funds for the youth recipient. Groups are responsible to allocate the funds appropriately for the intended purpose.
How can my Group contribute to NOLB?
Groups are able to contribute to No One Left Behind by including donating a portion of proceeds from fundraising activities to the cause. Every child should have the opportunity to experience Great Safe Scouting Adventures!
What does NOLB Participation Subsidy cover?
NOLB Participation Subsidy can cover the following expenses associated with participating in the program:
- Uniform
- Outdoor Equipment
- Weekend Camps
- Program Materials
If your application does not fit into one of the above categories, you may apply selecting "Other" category and providing short description of the need.
What does the NOLB Participation Subsidy not cover?
Summer Camps and Jamborees are not covered by the NOLB Participation Subsidy.
Still need help? Please feel free to contact the Scouts Canada Help Centre:
