December 15, 2011 - Physical activity programs offered in the after school time period are being supported with $615,000 in Government of the Northwest Territories funding announced by Robert C. McLeod, Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs (MACA). The programs, delivered by schools throughout the territory, are supported by the department through the Active After School program.

 “Creating opportunities for our youth to choose to be active after school is an important step in increasing their physical activity,” said Minister McLeod. “It is a fact that time after school is increasingly being spent watching television, playing video games or using the computer. Providing options for more physical activity will help reverse this trend and support our youth in making healthy choices from an early age.”

The Active After School program supports schools in creating or expanding programs that provide opportunities for school-aged children and youth to engage in physical activity. Governments across Canada have identified the after school time period as a key focus area where youth physical activity can be greatly increased. Programs like Active After School are consistent with this national focus and support the goal of reducing childhood obesity and building healthy communities across our territory.

A list of 2011-2012 funding recipients is attached.

Part of the Healthy Choices Framework, the Active After School program supports the 17^th Legislative Assembly’s goal of healthy, educated people by investing in prevention and building education and awareness around health related issues.

Click here for more information on the Active After School program.

For more information, contact:

David Maguire

Communications and Web Advisor
Municipal and Community Affairs
Government of the Northwest Territories

Phone: (867) 920-3092

The recipients for the Active After School funds for 2011-2012 are: