WESTBROOK — WinterKids, a nonprofit organization dedicated to getting kids outside and active during the winter season, plans to open the WinterKids Downhill 24 Outdoor Fund 2023 application window on Monday, June 5.

In celebration of the 10-year anniversary of the Downhill event in 2022, WinterKids established this fund to expand its efforts in promoting outdoor activities among children across Maine.

The fund aims to eliminate the barriers preventing children from participating in healthy outdoor activities, such as limited access to proper equipment, clothing and transportation, according to a news release from Julie Mulkern, executive director of WinterKids.

In its inaugural year, the fund granted $25,000 to four organizations, aiding them in their mission to facilitate outdoor engagement for youth:

• Noble Middle School, Berwick: $10,000;

• Bruce M. Whittier Middle School, Poland: $5,000;

• Auburn Middle School: $5,000; and

• Mount Abram Regional High School, Salem Township: $5,000.

Building upon the success of the previous year, the WinterKids Downhill 24 Outdoor Fund announces that in year two, $50,000 will be granted to 10 organizations. These grants aim to empower organizations within three distinct categories to enhance their efforts in getting children outside and active more frequently.

The winning organizations in each category — including nonprofit organizations, schools and public parks and recreation departments — will again be determined through a community vote.

“The WinterKids Downhill 24 Outdoor Fund has become a critical component of our ongoing commitment to empowering children to embrace an active lifestyle through outdoor learning and exploration,” said Mulkern. “We are excited to invite organizations from across Maine to submit their applications and join us in our mission to provide children with the tools they need to lead healthier lives.”

Interested organizations can apply online at winterkids.org by the application deadline on Friday, June 16. Last year’s winners are not eligible to apply.

After the submission period, there will be a community voting phase from July 3-28, allowing individuals to support their favorite organization.

Winners will be announced on Aug. 1.

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