Most Dutch people, as many as 70%, underestimate how many children in the Netherlands live in poverty. This is evident from research by Panel Wizard. Currently, approximately 1 million Dutch people live in poverty, of which 272.000 are children. That is no less than 1 in 12 children. Research also shows that only 44% of children from poor families are members of a sports club, compared to 77% in wealthier families. Of course, this does not necessarily mean that children from poor families exercise less, as they are more likely to be found on public sports fields and the schoolyard. A PumpTrack would be a great fit for a place where you can get moving for free!
PumpTracks are located in public spaces and are therefore (often) free to access. You can go there from sunrise to sunset. Good for getting exercise, but also for the social aspect, exercising together with friends from the neighborhood. Of course, to use a PumpTrack you need equipment, such as a bicycle, inline or roller skates, scooter or skateboard. Safety comes first, so a helmet is also important. These materials have relatively low purchase costs and you can already use the PumpTrack with your regular bicycle! Unfortunately, for some parents, these purchase costs are still an investment they cannot afford. But there are solutions for that. First of all, there may be people who still have such material in the shed, but it is also often offered at the thrift store. Always check that the material is of good quality and safe.
In addition, there are various organizations that ensure that children can still play sports. They do this by financing membership and material expenses. Maybe they would also like to finance your scooter and helmet? Organizations you can contact for this are the municipality (often has children's packages), Youth Fund Sports & Culture and Learning Money. They recently joined forces with the National Children's Aid Fund and the Jarige Job Foundation in Sam& for all children. As a parent you can submit your question here and it will be forwarded to the right organization.
https://www.samenvoorallekinderen.nl
https://www.allesoversport.nl/thema/meedoen-door-sport-en-bewegen/financiele-hulp-om-kinderen-te-laten-sporten/
