More Support to Battle Childhood Obesity

PREMIER'S OFFICE/HEALTH PROMOTION--More Support to Battle Childhood Obesity

Premier John Hamm and Health Promotion Minister Rodney MacDonald announced today, April 21, that the province will invest $330,000 in KidSport Nova Scotia, a program administered by Sport Nova Scotia that helps children overcome financial barriers which prevent or limit their participation in organized sport.

"The problem of childhood obesity is not going to go away on its own," Premier Hamm said. "That's why we are taking another step to give families and children the tools to make regular physical activity part of their lives."

Government's $330,000 investment is almost triple KidSport Nova Scotia's current budget. Mr. MacDonald said that by supplying opportunities for children to be active today, we are paving the way for a healthier Nova Scotia tomorrow.

"Last year, hundreds of kids got active in sports because of the help from KidSport. This year, with this investment, we'll see even more active kids," said Mr. MacDonald. "With each step we get closer to a solution to the childhood obesity epidemic in our province."

KidSport Nova Scotia was formed in 1994 to give all children the opportunity to grow, learn and live healthy through sport. Its current budget of just over $130,000 is generated through sponsorship, donation and fundraising. KidSport Nova Scotia provides a child with up to $200, once per year, for equipment or registration fees for sport.