Tobacco Free Sports Grant Still Looking for Applications

Anti-Chewing Tobacco Student March - Photo by Jenny Potter

Many sports organizations across Chatham-Kent could use an extra $200 – $1500 for their sports and recreation programs. The Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit is still looking for grant applications for these funds, with a deadline of September 30.

According to the Health Unit’s original release, the benefits of creating tobacco free spaces by means of this grant are numerous,

“Creating and sustaining tobacco free environments helps prevent youth from starting to use these products, protects the public from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke and supports people who are trying to quit.”

Many organizations in Chatham-Kent, including the Chatham-Kent Cougars, Chatham Maroons, Dresden Skating Club, and Blenheim Community Soccer League have already utilized the funds available from the Chatham-Kent Public Health unit in recent years to create tobacco free policies, and the funds received can go toward anything from new jerseys, to equipment, signs, and much more for organizations.

“The ultimate goal would be for all sports teams in Chatham-Kent to have a tobacco free policy to help prevent youth from starting to use tobacco products, and to support them in their effort to quit,” said Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit Smoke Free Ontario Coordinator.

“We want Chatham-Kent to be a healthier place, to live and play, and to set examples for other communities. Not just communities, but athletes and teams from across Ontario.”

Click Here to Download the Grant Application and for More Information

Or contact:

Michelle Bogaert
Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit
Smoke-Free Ontario Coordinator
519 352-7270 ext 2442
michelle.bogaert@chatham-kent.ca