Newtown Elementary Gets Boost to Improve Physical Activity Areas

Newtown Elementary School has received a $15,000 grant from the Provincial Government’s Community Capital Grants Program to assist with upgrades to the school’s outdoor physical education area and sports court.

“These improvements will go a long way not only for the students, but also for the community groups who use the school for various activities,” said the Honourable Terry French, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation. “This investment is another example of how this program is being utilized throughout our province to upgrade and modernize recreation, sport, and physical activity areas and facilities.”

Newtown Elementary School is among the many community-based organizations, municipalities, schools, and recreation commissions that have received funding to upgrade recreation and sport infrastructure that benefits area residents.

“Physical activity is very important to the growth and development of our children,” said Paul Lane, MHA for Mount Pearl South. “This equipment will be beneficial for the students of Newtown Elementary, and will also benefit the children of the neighbourhood for years to come.”

In addition to the outdoor improvements, funding will be used to purchase a variety of equipment including, soccer nets, bike racks and a goal system.

“Investments in recreation infrastructure are investments in the well-being of our community,” said the Honourable Paul Davis, Minister of Transportation and Works and MHA for Topsail. "This grant will not only enhance an enjoyable aspect of education, but will help young people and residents form healthy habits with respect to active living.”

Steve Kent, MHA for Mount Pearl North, noted this funding will complete the school’s physical education area. “Our government is doing its part to ensure that children across our province have the facilities that are essential to participate in various physical activities,” said Mr. Kent. “This investment at Newtown Elementary is just another example of that commitment.”

As part of the Provincial Government’s recreation and sport strategy, Active Healthy Newfoundland and Labrador, launched 2007, Budget 2012 provided $8.6 million to support recreation and sport in the province.

- 30 -

Media contacts:

2013 03 22                             2:30 p.m.