Last year the inaugural “Canadian Public Health Week” took place. This year, we celebrate it’s 2nd annual observance from April 3 to April 7.
“We have always known, but the last few years have really highlighted, to the public, the importance of having a dedicated, skilled local public health unit to meet the incredibly unique needs of our community,” stated Teresa Bendo, Director of CK Public Health, in a media release.
CK Public Health, Chatham-Kent’s local public health unit, has a vast responsibility across the community.
Programs and services that fall under CK Public Health’s umbrella include, prenatal education, breastfeeding support, vaccinations, sexual health support, student nutrition, physical literacy, harm reduction efforts, food premise inspections, monitoring of tick and mosquito populations, oral health for all ages, and much, much more.
“So much of what public health is responsible for takes place ‘behind the scenes’,” added April Rietdyk, General Manager of Community and Human Services, in a media release.
“It may not be something the general public takes note of daily, but without the programs, services and efforts of our public health professionals, the community would not, and could not survive – much less thrive.”
The public is invited to join Mayor Darrin Canniff on Tuesday, April 4 at 12 p.m. in front of the Civic Centre in Chatham where a flag raising will take place to recognize the contributions of our local public health unit and highlight issues that are important to improving our health and well-being.
