Thanks to the Anonymous Fund at the Toronto Foundation
Beat the Streets is pleased to announce that we have received a generous grant of $12,500 from the Anonymous Fund at the Toronto Foundation to support our after-school and recreational programs for children and youth up to the age of 18.
Why this matters
BTS Summer Open Mat Sessions, 2025
In Toronto, too many young people face barriers to participation in sport and recreation. Cost, access, and a lack of programs in their neighbourhoods often mean that children miss out on opportunities essential for their growth and development.
The research is clear: recreation is not just “extra” — it is foundational. Programs that combine physical activity with mentorship and skill-building lead to stronger mental health, improved confidence, academic resilience, and a greater sense of belonging. Yet, according to ParticipACTION’s 2024 Children and Youth Report Card, Canada received a D+ in overall physical activity, highlighting the urgent need for programs like these.
How this funding helps
Girls CAN Defend Workshop, 2025
This grant will enable us to continue delivering impactful after-school and recreational opportunities designed explicitly for low-income youth. From self-defence workshops to open mat sessions, after-school programs, leadership programs, and girls-only initiatives, our goal is to create safe spaces where young people can move, connect, and grow.
Every dollar invested goes directly into opening doors for youth who might not otherwise have access to these opportunities.
Gratitude & partnership
We are deeply grateful to the Anonymous Fund at Toronto Foundation for this contribution, and to all of our partners, coaches, schools, and supporters who share our vision of equity in sport and recreation.
Together, we’re building a city where every child has the chance to play, learn, and thrive.
Thank you.
About the Toronto Foundation
Toronto Foundation is the city’s community foundation, bringing together over 1,000 philanthropists and community builders to strengthen the well-being of Toronto and beyond. In 2024, the Foundation and its fundholders granted $26.7 million to local charities. Guided by its vision of building a “city of neighbours,” Toronto Foundation connects philanthropy to urgent community needs through donor-advised funds, responsible investing, and leading research such as the Toronto Vital Signs reports. It is also recognized nationally as one of Canada’s top equitable funders.
About Beat the Streets:
At Beat the Streets, our mission is to advance the education of low-income children and youth in the Greater Toronto Area through fun and unique wrestling, life skills, and employment-based development programs. Since 2015, we have served over 28,000 young individuals through our Wrestle 4 Fun, Level Up, You Grow Girl, Work it Girl, After-School and Open Mat Sessions programs, providing them with opportunities to develop their physical, mental, and social well-being. We believe in empowering the next generation by breaking down barriers and creating pathways to success.
Join us in our mission to impact youth:
Join us in making a difference by supporting our cause and learning more about how you can contribute to the education and growth of children and youth in need. Together, we can shape a brighter future for all.
