Isolation isn’t good for anyone’s mental or physical health.
That’s why Steps to Connect, a new program offered by Yarmouth Recreation, will help adults at risk of social isolation connect with programs that help them stay healthy, active and connected with their community.
Steps to Connect will receive $37,605 from the province, Municipal Affairs Minister Zach Churchill announced today, March 27, on behalf of Health and Wellness Minister Leo Glavine.
“We have many wonderful events in our community, but we know that some people need assistance and encouragement to feel connected,” said Mr. Churchill. “Everyone deserves to feel included, and that’s so important to our mental and physical health.”
The funding is from the Chronic Disease Innovation Fund, which supports projects that can help improve the health of Nova Scotians living with a chronic disease, or who are at risk of developing one.
The Steps to Connect program will work with community groups to help people living with mental illness, and others, take part in programs that will improve their health and well-being. Facilitators will reach out to people, giving them the confidence to become more active and take greater control of their mental and physical health needs.
“We are happy to provide extra support for community members who need it,” said Frank Grant, director, Yarmouth Recreation. “This funding will allow us to target those at risk of being isolated from the community and connect them with programs, services and events they might enjoy.”
“With the proper resources and support, communities have the opportunity to educate their citizens through meaningful and impactful health programs. These grants give people in Yarmouth the chance to develop and achieve their own goals to be healthy and stay healthy,” said Karen Jenkins, acting operations executive director, Western Zone, Nova Scotia Health Authority.
The Chronic Disease Innovation Fund will invest about $300,000 in 18 projects across the province. Community groups, in partnership with community health boards, applied for funding for projects that will help people stop smoking, reduce alcohol consumption, get active, and eat better.
Source: Release