Dr. Jason Gilliland on CBC London Morning: ACT-i-Pass Transforming Kids’ Health
- Post by: Morgan Seabrook
- 2:18PM Sep 28, 2026
- No Comment
Many thanks to CBC/Radio-Canada London Morning for featuring Western University‘s HEALab Director, Dr. Jason Gilliland, and highlighting how free access to recreation is changing kids’ lives in our community.
If you’re a parent with kids in Grade 5, you’re in luck because the free activity program, ACT-i-Pass, is taking registrations for another year, with students across London, St. Thomas, and the counties of Middlesex, Elgin and Oxford eligible.
Why ACT-i-Pass Works:
Less than 1 in 5 of children and youth meet the physical activity recommendation. ACT-i-Pass removes economic barriers so all Grade 5 students can access swimming, skating, basketball, soccer, dance, and more throughout London, St. Thomas, and the Counties of Elgin, Oxford and Middlesex. The impact has been particularly strong among girls, whose activity levels show significant increases after joining.
The benefits go beyond physical activity: kids who are more active show better school achievement, improved mental health, and reduced risk of chronic illnesses.
Ready to Get Involved?
For Students & Families: Grade 5 students and their parents can register now at www.playeverday.ca. There’s no cost involved to register, and it gives access to free and low-cost activities.
For Recreational Service Providers:
Are you offering programs in London, St. Thomas, or the counties of Elgin, Middlesex, and Oxford? Join the ACT-i-Pass network and expand access to the kids in your community. Visit playeveryday.ca or email us at playeveryday@uwo.ca to learn how your organization can participate.
Approximately 20,000 kids have benefited from this program since it launched. Let’s get more kids active and healthy this year.