ROTTERDAM, 16 May 2025 – A new policy aims to simplify access to free sport and cultural activities for children from low-income families in Rotterdam, starting in 2026. By integrating existing financial support into the Rotterdampas, administrative hurdles are expected to decrease significantly.
Sport and cultural subsidy integrated into Rotterdampas
As of 1 March 2026, children aged 4 to 17 whose parents earn less than 130% of the statutory social minimum (wettelijk sociaal minimum) will be able to access subsidies for sports and cultural participation more directly. This will be made possible through an updated Rotterdampas programme, which will automatically include the subsidy upon application.
The change is aimed at making it easier for families with limited means to enrol their children in sports clubs or cultural programmes, such as music or art classes.
Simplified system replaces current application method
Currently, families must apply for the subsidy through the Youth Fund for Sport and Culture Rotterdam (Jeugdfonds Sport & Cultuur Rotterdam), often with the help of intermediaries such as teachers or social workers. This process has been described as unnecessarily complex.
Under the new system, once a child receives a Rotterdampas at the reduced rate of €0, the subsidy is automatically loaded onto the card. Families can then register directly with participating sports or cultural organisations, eliminating the need for third-party assistance.
Local authority aims to reduce child poverty
“This simplification will make access much easier for children and their parents,” said Abigail Norville, alderman for poverty reduction, debt assistance, language, and allowances. “Parents will only need to verify their income once when applying for the Rotterdampas. After that, the support is automatically linked to the child’s pass. By lowering the threshold, we hope to reach many more children.”
The initiative supports the municipal goal of increasing participation in poverty-related schemes among children.
How it will work in 2026
Approximately 25,000 children in Rotterdam currently obtain the Rotterdampas at the low-income rate each year. Beginning in March 2026, a digital voucher will be added to the pass. This voucher can be used to cover the cost of a year’s membership at a sports or cultural institution, or for lessons, equipment, and instrument rentals.
Sports and cultural organisations will be approached later in 2025 to join the new programme. Until then, the current system via the Youth Fund remains in place for the rest of the year.
