A local MP has praised a bold new project which will help members of the Pacific community in south west Sydney tackle health issues such as obesity.
Anoulack Chanthivong, the state Member for Macquarie Fields, says that the local Pacific community faces some of the greatest health challenges in NSW with higher than State averages in mortality for avoidable health conditions, type II diabetes and coronary heart disease.
“This project is a fabulous community health initiative that empowers our community and will help improve public health outcomes,” Mr Chanthivong said.
The project, Pacific Healthier Eating Active Stronger Together, or PHEAST for short, is aimed at tackling the health challenges faced by members of this community.
“South west Sydney is home to many Pacific families who have made a wonderful contribution to our diverse community,’’ says Mr Chanthivong.
[social_quote duplicate=”no” align=”default”]“The project is aimed at empowering members of the Pacific community to improve their long term health through sharing experiences, good nutrition and exercise and inspiring others to lead a healthier life,’’ Mr Chanthivong said.[/social_quote]
“PHEAST is another example of our community coming together and working towards long term solutions to improve public health,” Mr Chanthivong said.
“PHEAST’s health ambassadors will work with the wider Pacific community, our local health providers and community organisations to recruit others to join the journey in making a positive change to their health.
“It is hoped that PHEAST will continue to grow and that we will see more people take on the responsibility of becoming health ambassadors.
“I’m proud to partner with the NSW Council for Pacific Communities, the South West Multicultural and Community Centre and a host of other local providers to deliver PHEAST,’’ the Labor MP said.
Members of the NSW Council for Pacific Communities and Anoulack Chanthivong launched the Pacific Healthier Eating Active Stronger Together project last Friday at the Minto Community Centre.
