BRAMPTON — One hundred young people facing financial barriers will have the opportunity to attend a free basketball camp in Brampton during March Break 2027 through a partnership involving the City, The Superfan Nav Bhatia Foundation and Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities.
Called THE BIG BREAK, the program will bring a special edition of the Nav Bhatia Fantasy Basketball Camp to the Brampton Soccer Centre. Registration information will be released later this fall.
The camp will combine basketball instruction and mentorship with activities that encourage teamwork, confidence and sportsmanship. Participants will also enjoy features inspired by professional basketball, including personalized uniforms, player introductions, daily giveaways and opportunities to meet basketball personalities.
Organizers say the initiative aims to give young people access to a rewarding sports experience without placing additional financial pressure on their families.
Nav Bhatia, founder of The Superfan Nav Bhatia Foundation, said basketball has helped him connect with people across cultures and backgrounds. Through the camp, he hopes to offer children who might otherwise miss out a welcoming place to play, learn and develop their ambitions.
Mayor Patrick Brown welcomed the partnership, saying it would allow young residents to strengthen their basketball skills and find inspiration through sport at no cost to their families.
Regional Councillor Rowena Santos, chair of Brampton’s Community Services Committee, said the initiative supports the City’s efforts to make recreation more accessible while helping youth build confidence and community connections.
Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities president Marco Di Buono said financial circumstances should not prevent children from experiencing the benefits of sport. He highlighted community partnerships as an important way to expand participation.
The City also plans to work with the foundation and its partner to explore opportunities to improve basketball amenities across Brampton.
The announcement comes alongside several recreation projects intended to serve the city’s growing population. These include the Century Gardens Youth Hub, which will feature an outdoor basketball half-court, and the Embleton Community Centre in southwest Brampton, supported by a $64-million federal investment.
Other initiatives include additional indoor tennis courts at Gore Meadows East Community Park, a dedicated year-round cricket facility at Earnscliffe Park and the new 3.5-hectare Sandalwood Heights Adventure Park.
Approximately 30 free sports equipment lockers are also available at parks and recreation locations through a partnership with Equip Sport and Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities, helping residents participate without having to purchase their own equipment.
Information about City recreation programs is available at brampton.ca/recreation.