Encouraging cycling as a regular form of exercise to improve newcomers' overall health and wellness
March 21, 2022 | Vancouver, BC | Public Health Agency of Canada
Research shows that most immigrant adults coming to Canada tend to see their health decline after their arrival. This decline is due to decreased levels of physical activity, poor diet, stress, and social isolation. These can in turn lead them to become more prone to chronic diseases.
Today, Taleeb Noormohamed, Member of Parliament for Vancouver Granville, on behalf of the Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Health, announced an investment of more than $970,000 to fund a project that supports increased physical activity and healthy living for immigrant populations in three cities. The project will implement innovative and integrated approaches to promote healthy living and address the common risk factors for chronic disease.
The Immigrant Services Society of British Columbia (ISSofBC) will use this funding for the "Newcomer Bike Mentorship Program," which supports newcomers in making cycling a regular form of transportation during their settlement processes. The project will match immigrants and refugees with local cycling experts who will provide them with support, resources, ideas for activities, and organize group events.
Through this mentorship program, newcomers in Vancouver, Toronto and Halifax will have the opportunity to become familiar with their city's cycling routes, rules, and culture while regularly exercising. By doing so, they will also learn about the life-long health and chronic disease prevention benefits from cycling as a regular form of exercise.
