City of Surrey launches North America’s first free self-service sports equipment stations

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The City is launching 30 self-service lending stations for year-round community use, offering equipment such as table tennis sets, fitness gear, soccer balls and basketballs.(Photo: X @SurreyMayor)

The City of Surrey is the first in North America to offer free access to sports equipment lending stations through a partnership with Jumpstart Charities and Equip Sport. The City is launching 30 self-service lending stations for year-round community use, offering equipment such as table tennis sets, fitness gear, soccer balls and basketballs. Stations will be available at over 20 parks, including Cloverdale Athletic Park, Tamanawis Park, Bear Creek Park and South Surrey Athletic Park.

“Sport is for everyone, but financial and logistical barriers can make it hard to participate,” Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke said. “This free initiative provides sports equipment to all residents, helping to remove those barriers and strengthen community participation and connection. As the first city in North America to offer this innovative, inclusive program, Surrey is proud to lead the way in accessible recreation.”

Surrey is the first city in North America to implement the Equip Sport self-service model, with Toronto expected to follow. Equip Sport is a Swiss-based company that operates over 400 lending stations across Europe, aiming to make sports accessible for everyone anytime, anywhere.

“Surrey’s bold vision for growth, innovation, and inclusive public spaces makes it the perfect launchpad for Equip Sport in North America,” said Vincent Borel, CEO of Equip Sport. “Together, we’re reimagining how urban communities move, connect, and play, unlocking free access to sport for all.”

The program is funded by Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities, a national organization that helps remove financial and accessibility barriers so all kids can participate in sports, at no cost to the City or residents.

“Jumpstart is proud to support this initiative that opens the door for more kids and families to enjoy the power of play,” said Marco Di Buono, President of Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities. “We believe all kids should have the opportunity to get involved in sport, and this partnership with Surrey and Equip helps bring that vision to life.”

To participate, residents can download the free Equip Sport app from the Google Play or Apple App stores, find a station, tap to unlock it, grab the equipment, and start playing.