Greater Dandenong Council has received a two-year $703,000 Federal Government grant to improve community health.
Greater Dandenong is one of seven Victorian councils to receive funding from the national $71.8 million Healthy Communities Initiative, being rolled out across 33 municipalities.
Greater Dandenong Community Services Director Mark Doubleday said the municipality’s health was traditionally quite poor and council was keen to reverse this trend.
To receive the grant, Council has committed to increasing the number of adults taking part in recreational activities and healthy eating programs.
Council is hosting Get Active Greater Dandenong this month and again in March 2013. Other community health initiatives will include nutrition and exercise programs, the recruitment of five health ambassadors, a Heart Foundation walking program and a healthy food hub at Dandenong Market.
Greater Dandenong Mayor Youhorn Chea said it was important the community took their health and wellbeing seriously.
"I would encourage residents to take advantage of all the fantastic activities over the next two years." he said.
"By making some small changes our residents can dramatically alter their health outcomes and live longer and more enriched lives."
Get Active Greater Dandenong this month involves residents in cycling, netball, aerobics, dancing, squash, volleyball and other activities.
For further details visit www.getactivegreaterdandenong.com.au
