The Nationals Member for Lowan and Shadow Minister for Youth Hugh Delahunty is encouraging community organisations in the Lowan electorate to apply for Positive Body Image Grants.
“Youth are our investment in the future and the Positive Body Image Grants of up to $5000 are for projects to promote healthy lifestyle choices and promote a positive body image in young people,” Mr Delahunty said.
“The Positive Body Image Grants are available to organisations undertaking activities which promote positive body image to young people particularly aged between 12-16 years.
“The projects should encourage healthy lifestyle choices. Young people’s health and wellbeing are vital to their success in remaining engaged in their communities,” Mr Delahunty said.
The Positive Body Image Grants 2010 will support projects that promote positive body images messages such as skill development for young people in leadership, mentoring, information and peer support; programs that recognize difference concerns of young people; activities that stimulate young people to build awareness of positive body image; and practical programs to encourage healthy eating and physical activity.
Mr Delahunty said priority would be given to projects that involve young people from diverse communities and target those at risk of developing a negative body image.
“The Positive Body Grants would help increase self-esteem and confidence in young people while demonstrating a youth participation approach in the development, delivery and evaluation of the project,” Mr Delahunty explained.
Mr Delahunty said partnerships between young people supported by a community organisation such as a community or neighbourhood house, secondary school, local government, health centre or youth service would be encouraged.
“Of course leading a healthy and active lifestyle not only helps with wellbeing but also so healthy eating and physical exercise all help to reinforce positive body image,” Mr Delahunty said.
“From my visits to many schools throughout the Lowan electorate I am aware of how important it is to young people’s self esteem to feel fit, be active and have a sense of belonging through involvement in activities which are healthy lifestyle choices,” Mr Delahunty said.
Applications for Positive Body Image Grants 2010 must be submitted by Monday 22nd March, 2010. For further information and application forms visit website: www.grants.dpcd.vic.gov.au or Mr Delahunty’s offices by telephoning 5382 0097 or 5571 9800.
Media contact: Hugh Delahunty (03) 5382 0097
