Who is the Tri-Health Team?

The Tri-Health Coalition of Leeds, Grenville and Lanark continued its work throughout 2002 by planning and participating in a number of communitybased initiatives. The Coalition focuses upon reducing chronic diseases by promoting healthy eating, physical activity, and smokefree living. Coalition partners include the Canadian Cancer Society, the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Canadian Diabetes Association and Rideau Valley Diabetes Project, Community Health Centres, the Lung Association, the Brockville and Area YMCA-YWCA, community volunteers, and the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit.

The Eat Smart! Restaurant Program received greater interest than in previous years. Twenty-seven restaurants met the criteria for the program and received certifications. Eat Smart! Restaurants have a record of safe food handling practices, a high percentage of smoke-free seating, and offer healthy food choices. The Grocery Store Campaign delivered eight cooking demonstrations during March, Nutrition Month. Customers were able to watch in-store food demonstrations, and sample healthy foods. Customers also received free healthy recipes and Tri-Health promotional items. Tri-Health was also very supportive in creating awareness about the health hazards of second-hand smoke in the workplace and public areas. An emphasis was made to increase awareness of municipal governments regarding the need for smoking bylaws.

Other important initiatives included: the partial funding of community based projects: the development of a Leeds, Grenville and Lanark trail guide; and display at community events.