Support for Communities to Get Active

Nova Scotians will have more opportunities to get active with $500,000 in physical activity grants from Nova Scotia Health Promotion.

"Last year thousands of Nova Scotians got active in new or expanded programs in their communities thanks to a physical activity grant," said Health Promotion Minister Rodney MacDonald. "This is another way we are helping communities increase participation in sport and physical recreation."

Nova Scotia Health Promotion's goal is to achieve a 10 percentage point increase by 2010 in the number of Nova Scotians who are active enough to receive health benefits.

Grants are available for up to 50 per cent of a project's total cost, to a maximum of $10,000. They must be used to create or expand opportunities to help Nova Scotians be more active. Applications are now available from Nova Scotia Health Promotion and must be received by Sept. 30.

"We are looking for activities that lead to life-long physical activity," said Mr. MacDonald. "Statistics Canada reports that Nova Scotia has obesity rates above the national average. These programs are one way of reaching people who are inactive, especially children and youth.

For more information see the website at www.gov.ns.ca/ohp/srd/pagrants/index.htm or contact Nova Scotia Health Promotion at 1-866-231-3882. Staff will assist in identifying project eligibility and completing the application process.