Exercising Good Policy: Increasing Access to Recreation in Toronto’s 2013 Budget, a new report by the Wellesley Institute, says we can make changes to the city budget now to improve our health, we don’t have to wait.
Strong evidence links low-levels of physical activity with poor health including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, mental illness, hypertension and obesity.
Recent cuts to recreation programs by city council have reduced access for many communities, putting the health of Torontonians in jeopardy.
Our recommendations work to remove barriers to access to recreation. We include expanding the number of recreation centres that provide free programming, increasing access to low-income families and individuals through the Welcome Policy, and increasing funding to youth outreach workers’ programs. Community programs associated with recreation centres have been linked to positive health outcomes across communities and for youth in particular. Increasing access to recreation in our neighbourhoods we can improve health for everyone.
Toronto residents are tired of budget cuts that tear apart our city. The 2013 budget can be a city builder including policies that ensure Torontonians have access to recreation programs that improve their health.
To read the full report please visit: Exercising Good Policy: Increasing Access to Recreation in Toronto’s 2013 Budget
Download the executive summary here.