Ottawa – Being physically active helps to improve our physical and mental health. Regular physical activity can also help to prevent chronic disease. That’s why the Government of Canada is proud to invest in community-based initiatives that are providing more Canadians with opportunities to get physically active.
Through Budget 2023, the Public Health Agency of Canada committed $10 million over two years towards ParticipACTION’s Let’s Get Moving initiative. Part of this initiative includes the Community Challenge program that encourages everyone to get active throughout the month of June.
The Community Challenge provides organizations across Canada with grants to support physical activity programming. Earlier this week, Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Sport and Physical Activity, visited the Special Olympics Ontario – Greater Ottawa Area Rowing Program at the Ottawa Rowing Club.
Through their Community Challenge grant Special Olympics Ontario, in partnership with the Ottawa Rowing Club, is providing opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities to experience rowing and participate in team sport. During its inaugural season in 2023, the program welcomed 11 participants and looks forward to reaching even more participants this year.
“The more we move, the better we feel. Our government is proud to partner with ParticipACTION to support organizations like Special Olympics Ontario and the Ottawa Rowing Club in providing opportunities to get physically active across Canada. Through initiatives like the Community Challenge, ParticipACTION is raising awareness and helping more Canadians lead healthier, happier and longer lives.” – Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Sport and Physical Activity