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No more municipal subsidies for the Rotterdam Youth Fund from 2026 | 19 May 2025

No more municipal subsidies for the Rotterdam Youth Fund from 2026

The Rotterdam Youth Fund for Sports and Culture, which has been supporting children from low-income families since 2007, will no longer receive subsidies from the municipality of Rotterdam as of March 1, 2026. The municipality has announced that financial support for sports and culture will be channeled directly through the Rotterdam Pass, without the fund's involvement. However, there are concerns about the implementation of the new scheme.

Concern for vulnerable families

 "Ultimately, it's the network of more than 1,250 active intermediaries that motivates children to participate," says Samir Azrioual, chair of the Rotterdam Youth Fund for Sport & Culture. "We reach precisely the children who often remain invisible to formal programs. This requires a tailored approach, personal contact, and community involvement. That's the strength of our network."

Through this network of schools, youth workers, and social workers, the Youth Fund reaches approximately 9,000 Rotterdam children annually. Intermediaries provide personalized support to parents and children, lower barriers to entry, and ensure continued participation in sports and cultural activities.

Public and private support

In addition to municipal funding, the Youth Fund raises over €700,000 annually from private and national sources. This amount is entirely spent on helping Rotterdam children. Within the "Sam& for all children" partnership, the fund collaborates with organizations including Stichting Leergeld, Kinderhulp, the Youth Education Fund, and Jarige Job. Thanks to this collaboration, hundreds of Rotterdam children received a birthday box from Jarige Job last year through the fund.

Call for consultation

The Youth Fund has been advocating for a partnership with the Rotterdam Pass since 2022, as it simplifies the process. The fund is eager to maintain contact with the municipality of Rotterdam to continue working together to maximize the participation of all children in sports and culture.

Board and staff of Youth Fund Sports & Culture Rotterdam