News Release
1997-11
February 21, 1997
Children's programs enable better start in life
WINNIPEG - Health Minister David Dingwall today emphasized that the funding increase announced in the budget for two key programs, the Community Action Program for Children (CAPC) and the Canada Prenatal Nutrition Program (CPNP), will strengthen Canada's community-based network supporting children and complement new federal action to reduce child poverty. The Minister made the comments while visiting the Andrews Street Family Centre in Winnipeg.
The February 18 budget increased funding for CAPC and CPNP by $100 million over the next three years. These programs involve constructive partnerships with provinces, territories and stakeholders to provide the kinds of support families at risk need to help their children thrive. The increased funding will provide flexibility to move in new directions, address gaps in services and build on proven success.
"Investing in the health of our children is a strategic investment in our future, and CAPC and CPNP are among the best long-term investments in children the federal government can make," said the Minister. "They are examples of highly successful community-based programs that make a real difference to children and their families," he added.
The Minister noted that these investments in children and families, and especially community-based programs, were among the key recommendations of the National Forum on Health.
CAPC and CPNP currently fund 748 projects in over 500 communities across Canada. The goal of the programs is to ensure that children have a healthy start in life by addressing the needs of young children, young pregnant women and families living in conditions of risk to health.
- 30 -
Attachment: Community Action Program for Children and the Canada Prenatal Nutrition Program (fact sheet)
Media Inquiries:
Bonnie Fox-McIntyre/Monique Renaud-Gagné
Health Canada
(613) 957-1588
Public Inquiries:
(613) 957-2991
|
