Media Advisory - Program Aimed at Healthier and Safer School Commutes to Launch Nationally Tomorrow

Active School Travel to Reduce Chronic Disease, Increase Happiness

WINNIPEG, March 15 /CNW/ - Media are advised that at a press conference tomorrow Green Communities Canada will formally launch the national phase of a comprehensive program designed to make it easier and safer for Canadian children to walk and bike to school. With federal funding now in place, the organization will be joined by government representatives, stakeholders, funders and research partners to launch the School Travel Planning program as it expands to communities in every province and territory in Canada. A photo opportunity of school children and community members walking together will follow the announcement.

Green Communities Canada is a national association of non-profit organizations that deliver innovative, practical environmental solutions to Canadian households and communities.

What:     Announcement of national expansion of Green Communities
              Canada's School Travel Planning program

    When:     Tomorrow, Tuesday, March 16, 2010, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. CDT

    Where:    Carpathia School, 300 Carpathia Road, Winnipeg, Manitoba

    Who:      Jacky Kennedy, Director, Canada Walks, Green Communities Canada
              Holly Mackie, Principal, Carpathia School
              Jackie Sneesby, Board Chair, Winnipeg School Division
              Jackie Avent, Coordinator, Active & Safe Routes to School
               Program, Resource Conservation Manitoba
              Dr. Jon Kerner, Chair, Primary Prevention Action Group,
               Canadian Partnership Against Cancer
              Dr. Catherine O'Brien, Researcher, Cape Breton University

Following the program, there will be a media Q & A with speakers, funders and designated Carpathia School students. Visitor parking is available on the adjacent Carpathia Road and Lockwood Street. Please use the school's northeast door at 300 Carpathia Road.

For further information: Media Contact: Tamara Bodi, Communications Manager, McKim Cringan George, t: [phone] ext. 349, f: [phone], e: [e-mail]