APPLICATIONS  for the 2013 Healthy Schools Healthy Children funding round have opened.

“This program is all about giving our children and young people the healthiest possible start in life,” Chief Minister Katy Gallagher  (pictured) said.

The funding aims to support health promotion activities that align with key ACT Government supported healthy eating and physical activity policies. It supports health promotion initiatives such as  the “Ride or Walk to School” and “Healthy Food@School” programs. The funding is offered through the ACT Health Promotion Grants program.

“Healthy habits can last a lifetime, so it is important we encourage Canberrans to live active lives and eat healthy diets from an early age,” Ms Gallagher said.

“The ACT Government is committed to providing children and young people with the best start in life. The Healthy Schools Healthy Children Funding round is part of a broader suite of initiatives aimed at

promoting healthy active lifestyles for all children and young people.”

Grants are available from a total funding pool of up to $350,000 with activities to be implemented from February, 2013. Applications must be submitted by Monday, September 17.

More information at www.health.act.gov.au/hpgrants or call 6205 1325.