NLIS 1
July 29, 2003
(Executive Council)

 

Healthy Communities Project launched

The Southeastern Aurora Development Corporation and the Labrador Straits Development Corporation have launched a project focusing on joint training opportunities, leadership development, recreation and skill building.

The year-long Healthy Communities Project is funded through Human Resources Development Canada�s Youth Employment Initiative, the federal Department of Justice�s Community Mobilization Program, the Strategic Social Plan and other in-kind supporters such as the Department of Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs.

"Working together to deal with challenges in rural communities is the best way to bring about long-term change," said Gerald Smith, Minister of Health and Community Services and lead minister for the Strategic Social Plan. "The Healthy Communities Project not only reflects the SSP in action, it is also in keeping with our Strategic Health Plan."

The initiative will offer workshops, training, coaching certificates, youth and seniors programming, crime prevention, health promotion and health lifestyles for the 19 communities from Cartwright to L�Anse au Clair. Its main focus is to bring communities together in order to maximize the potential of the region and the people living there.

David Yetman, Executive Director with the Labrador Straits Development Corporation, is excited about this partnership between the two zonal boards.

"The idea began in 2001 with a Health Summit in Happy Valley - Goose Bay. Many partners from the South Coast of Labrador identified the need for recreation directors in southern Labrador," said Mr. Yetman. "This new collaborative approach was needed in order to bring training and new skills into our communities."

Vicki Hedderson has been hired as the project coordinator, with the office based in Port Hope Simpson. Ms. Hedderson will be contacting all organizations within the region and sending out requests to determine community needs and what training residents would like to see offered.

Ms. Hedderson can be reached at the Municipal Building in Port Hope Simpson at (709) 960-0471 or 960-0525.

Media contact: 
Alicia Sutton 709-896-5152
Vicki Hedderson 709-960-0471 or 0525
David Yetman 709-931-2065

2003 07 29                                      10:05 a.m.


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