Affordable Access Program
Beginning January 2026, the Canada Games Centre joined the Halifax Regional Municipality’s Recreation Access Program, delivered through the municipal Affordable Access Program. This program provides standardized, equitable access to affordable recreation across all municipally owned recreation facilities. We will no longer be accepting Fee Assistance Program applications and encourage users to apply to the Affordable Access Program through the HRM.
For full program information, please visit the HRM Affordable Access website here or contact affordableaccess@halifax.ca
About the Program
Approved applicants are eligible for subsidies of 100%, 50%, or 25% on:
- Recreation programs at the Centre, including camps, swim programs, group fitness, and more!
- 1-month Affordable Access passes, renewable monthly in person (see pricing below)
Available for children, youth, adults, seniors, and families.
Eligible Programs
All programs are eligible except:
- Private swim lessons
- The Centre’s swim team
- Personal training sessions
- Birthday parties
- Programs delivered by third-party providers
- Room and facility rentals
Enrollment in programs is subject to availability.
Please note that all questions related to the Program, including program eligibility, should be addressed to affordableaccess@halifax.ca
Affordable Access – 1-Month Pass Rates
Approved Affordable Access applicants are eligible for the following 1-Month Pass rates* (plus HST):
| Category | 100% Subsidy | 50% Subsidy | 25% Subsidy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family | $0.00 | $56.75 | $85.13 |
| Adult | $0.00 | $32.87 | $49.31 |
| Senior (60+) | $0.00 | $21.37 | $32.06 |
| Student (19–25) | $0.00 | $29.75 | $44.63 |
| Youth (3–18) | $0.00 | $21.37 | $32.06 |
| Add-On | $0.00 | $18.62 | $27.94 |
*Rates are subject to change periodically
The Affordable Access Program does not cover annual paid-in-full or bi-weekly memberships. Affordable Access 1-Month passes are renewable in person at the Customer Service desk.
How to Apply
Applications can be submitted in one of the following ways:
Email (recommended):
affordableaccess@halifax.ca
Mail:
Halifax Regional Municipality
Attention: Affordable Access Program
PO Box 1749
Halifax, NS B3J 3A5
Please note: The Centre does not accept applications directly. Applications must be sent to HRM. All questions regarding eligibility and application status should be directed to HRM Affordable Access.
Eligibility Criteria
For full qualification information, please visit HRM Affordable Access Program Qualifications page here.
In order to be eligible for the Program, applicants must:
- Reside within the Halifax Regional Municipality
- Provide proof of financial need
- Apply before paying for a program (no retroactive reimbursements)
Please note: Access may be limited at the discretion of the municipality.
Income Thresholds (2026 Low-Income Cut-Offs – Before Tax)
| Family Size | 100% Discount | 50% Discount | 25% Discount |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $32,000 and under | $32,001 – $64,000 | $64,001 – $80,000 |
| 2 | $39,000 and under | $39,001 – $78,000 | $78,001 – $97,000 |
| 3 | $48,000 and under | $48,001 – $96,000 | $96,001 – $120,000 |
| 4 | $59,000 and under | $59,001 – $118,000 | $118,001 – $147,000 |
| 5 | $66,000 and under | $66,001 – $132,000 | $132,001 – $165,000 |
| 6 | $75,000 and under | $75,001 – $150,000 | $150,001 – $187,000 |
| 7+ | $83,000 and under | $83,001 – $166,000 | $166,001 – $207,000 |
Required Documentation
Applicants must submit:
- A completed application form
- One of the following as proof of financial need:
- Notice of Assessment (18+)
- Letter or official confirmation from the Department of Community Services
- Proof of Income Assistance
- Canada Child Tax Benefit documentation (for children/youth under 18)
Application Deadlines
- There are no deadlines associated with the Recreation Access program.
- You must reapply for the Affordable Access Program on an annual basis from the month you first applied with up-to-date documentation.