Funding Continues for After the Bell Program in Middleton and Annapolis Royal

NOTE: A list of grants announced today follows this release.

Young people are getting stronger and more flexible, and learning outdoor skills and environmental stewardship, through After the Bell programs in Middleton and Annapolis Royal.

Today, April 8, Premier Stephen McNeil announced nearly $5,700 in funding for after-school programs in Middleton and Annapolis Royal.

"Any chance that we have to positively influence young females with physical activity, while also educating and building confidence, should be taken seriously," said Kelsey Nogler, instructor of Learn to Lift, an After the Bell funded program. "I am so grateful that I have been given this opportunity to work with this group of girls and share my knowledge to create healthier futures."

After the Bell aims to increase physical activity in 12-to-15-year-olds, the years of greatest decline in physical activity, with a priority to involve girls. Research shows just 21 per cent of girls meet the standard of 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily. Last year, 79 per cent of the 1,958 After the Bell participants were girls.

"It's so important for young people to establish a lifelong habit of being physically active early in life," said Premier McNeil. "Physical activity helps students learn and focus in school, and it helps them stay healthy throughout their entire lives."

Groups that receive After the Bell funding can decide which activities they would like to run based on the needs of their community.

Government is investing $282,000 in After the Bell projects in 67 communities across the province.

Following is a list of grants announced today:

• $2,628 for Middleton Learn to Lift and Yoga Outside
• $3,050 for The Young Outdoors Women in Annapolis Royal, which teaches survival skills, outdoor skills and environmental stewardship