The Heart and Stroke Foundation applauds investments in Canadians' health

The 2014 Federal Budget includes cost-saving measures for charity lotteries and an increase in tobacco taxes

OTTAWA, Feb. 11, 2014 /CNW/ - The Heart and Stroke Foundation applauds the federal government for including important health-related measures in the 2014 Federal Budget released today.

The budget makes a commitment to amend the Criminal Code to allow charities to use computers and other modern technologies to run our lotteries. This is a welcome change that will result in millions of dollars in savings each year for Canadian charities that operate lotteries, with no cost to taxpayers. Modernizing the lottery ticket process will greatly reduce administration costs.

"We are very pleased that this legislation will be updated," says Bobbe Wood, President, Heart and Stroke Foundation. "Making the process more efficient will allow us to save a substantial amount of money which we will now be able to spend on life-saving research and programs that benefit Canadians."

The budget also includes a tobacco tax increase of $4 per carton. Taxes are the most effective tool in combating the harm caused by tobacco. These measures will have the most benefit to vulnerable populations, such as our youth, by discouraging them from starting smoking.

The Heart and Stroke Foundation's mission is to prevent disease, save lives and promote recovery. A volunteer-based health charity, we strive to tangibly improve the health of every Canadian family, every day. Healthy lives free of heart disease and stroke. Together we will make it happen. heartandstroke.ca

SOURCE: Heart and Stroke Foundation

For further information:

Stephanie Lawrence
Heart and Stroke Foundation
[e-mail]
613-569-4361 ext. 351