Thrive! Program Helps Rural Youth be Physically Active

Youth can be more physically active after school through new community-based programs in Argyle, Barrington, Mahone Bay, Shelburne, South Queens and Yarmouth.

Lunenburg MLA Pam Birdsall, on behalf of Health and Wellness Minister David Wilson, launched After the Bell in Mahone Bay today, March 18. The program will provide $23,000 to the South Shore communities for after-school activities in rural and remote communities and where busing and transportation can be a challenge.

"After the Bell builds on the efforts of our community partners to make Nova Scotia healthier," said Ms. Birdsall. "I want to thank members of the South Shore Active Communities for being longtime leaders and for making it a priority to make physical activity more accessible to more young people."

After the Bell aims to increase physical activity in 12- to 15- year-olds, the years of greatest decline in physical activity. The priority is to involve girls, as research shows just 21 per cent meet the standard of 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily.

"After the Bell at the Mahone Bay Centre will boost the use of our new gym by young people," said chair Paul Seltzer. "We are very excited about the program's potential to get our youth interested in physical activity and healthy living."

The centre will offer activities, such as badminton, softball and yoga, for junior high students in the area.

After the Bell is providing $23,000 each to six regions across the province, after inviting organizations to propose activities.

Helping junior high-age youth who have trouble accessing physical activity programs, is a government commitment in Thrive!, a plan for a healthier Nova Scotia. The plan addresses preventable chronic disease with 34 actions focused on healthy eating and physical activity.

Learn more http://thrive.novascotia.ca .