Peterborough- Today MPP Jeff Leal announced that the Peterborough Public Health Unit has been approved for a one-time grant from the Province of Ontario of $50,000 for their Food Security Project.

The government of Ontario is committed to strengthening and improving public health for all Ontarians. We have more than doubled public health spending in the province, to increase health promotion, illness prevention and screening.

The Ministry of Health has uploaded the costs of local public health from municipalities, by increasing the province’s share for mandatory programs from 50% in 2004 to 75% in 2007.

QUOTES

“The Food Security Program makes our community stronger and healthier. With this funding individuals and families in our community will be in a better position to access healthy foods. They will be educated on how to make healthier choices. I feel this initiative is very important not only in our community but for the entire province. I look forward to working with local agencies in the city to further develop this program,” said MPP Jeff Leal

"I am very pleased to recognize the Province's support of the food security project. Much research exists that demonstrates the impact hunger has on the overall well being of individuals and families and the permanent and devastating developmental and learning delays experienced by children who suffer chronic hunger. I appreciate the work of the Peterborough County-City Health Unit, community agencies and the Province who, together, have recognized a growing need in this community. With the Province's financial backing, we can continue to work together to help alleviate hunger in our community," shared Mayor Paul Ayotte, City of Peterborough.

“Local politicians are passionate about the difference the Food Security Project is making in the lives of our most vulnerable community members. Jeff Leal has been able to get the ear of key decision makers in the legislature and translate this passion into funding for 2009 and we are thankful for this effort. The FSCPP is reaching priority populations with opportunities to eat nourishing meals, gain valuable cooking skills and participate in local food box programs. In 2008 - 5000 community members were reached through this partnership. The community response to the program has been remarkable, not just in the numbers reached, but in the stories from individuals whose lives have been affected,” said Dr Rosana Pellizzari, Medical Officer of Health, Peterborough County-City Health Unit

“We are extremely pleased that the Province has come through for our community’s need,” stated Warden Ronald Gerow. “MPP Jeff Leal and I have been advocating for the Food Security Program’s increased demand this year, doing what we can to help stabilize families and the people in our communities. I commend MPP Leal for his commitment to the program and determination to see this funding come to the Peterborough region.”

QUICK FACTS

• The Peterborough Public Health received provincial funding of $5,300,270 in 2008/09, a total increase of $2,630,960 since 2003, or 99%.

• For 2009 they are receiving an increase of 4.19% as well as $50,000 in one-time funding for a total grant of $5,360,645