Minimum wage and living wage, what’s the difference?

With all this living wage talk, it is important to point out the differences between minimum wage and living wage. The important thing to remember is that calculating a living wage rate helps answer the question:  “What DOES it cost to live, learn, work and play in our community?” Minimum wage: 1. Ontario is $10.25/hr 2. Legislated and legally binding 3. Determined by provincial government … Read More

Join us for a cooking demonstration!

Just in time for Thanksgiving, we will be cooking creative vegetarian recipes that are great additions to your holiday meal. When: Wednesday October 9th from 6:00 – 7:00pm Where: Chatham Public Library What: Be introduced to vegetarian cooking Get ideas on how to prepare local seasonal vegetables Learn about vegetarian recipes you can include at Thanksgiving Watch a cooking demonstration … Read More

Things Aunt Nan Says (About Breastfeeding)

“Formula is just easier than breastfeeding.”  “Formula will help babies sleep longer.”  “Breastfeeding will make your boobs sag.” Aunt Nan has a lot of opinions about breastfeeding that are not true!  Check out our new page at www.ckpublichealth.com/auntnan to find out the truth.

Every ride begins with a click

Did You Know? Motor vehicle collisions remain a leading cause of injury-related death in Ontario. Every 11 hours someone in Ontario is killed or injured in a motor vehicle collision who wasn’t wearing their seatbelt. Occupants in motor vehicle collisions are on average, about 30 times more likely to be killed if they are not wearing their seatbelt. In 2010, … Read More

What can a living wage buy?

A living wage helps working families make enough money to cover reasonable costs.  It encourages social inclusion and supports healthy child development.  A living wage also helps make sure families are not under severe financial stress. Expenses included in a living wage are based on local costs with input from the community.  These expenses usually include food, clothing and footwear, shelter and utilities … Read More

How to Avoid Catching an STI

Plan – before you have sex. Decide – if sex is right for you with this person. Prepare – take care of birth control, STI (sexually transmitted infection) protection, and your self esteem. Think clearly and stay in control – alcohol and drugs impair your decisions and put you at risk of sexual assault, condom failure, and STIs. Consider – ECP and … Read More

Finding it hard to pinch pennies?

With more working families finding it harder to make ends meet, a living wage may be the answer. A living wage is the estimated hourly rate of pay that enables working families to afford basic everyday expenses and to be able to participate in their community. The hourly rate is based on the living expenses of a family of four with both parents … Read More

Heat Warning – Level 2

A level two heat warning has been issued for Chatham-Kent as humidex values of 45°C or higher are in the forecast.  Residents of Chatham-Kent should take the following steps to prevent heat-related illness: Drink plenty of water. Go to an air conditioned place. Wear a hat and lightweight, loose-fitting clothing. Take a cool bath or shower. Limit outdoor activities to … Read More

Safe Pools and Splash Pads– It’s What We Do

The warm weather is back! You’re probably thinking about staying cool by using one of the pools and/or splash pads available in Chatham-Kent. You will feel safe using these once you know that Chatham-Kent Public Health Inspectors are out there regularly inspecting all the public pools and splash pads. During the inspection, Public Health Inspectors sample the water too. Regular inspections … Read More

Aunt Nan says: “You might not have enough milk to breastfeed.”

Only 2% of mothers are unable to breastfeed for medical reasons.  Breasts make milk on a supply-and-demand basis.  As your baby takes milk, your body tells your breasts to make milk – so you will never run out, no matter what size your breasts are.  If a mother feels she is having problems with her milk supply, she should contact … Read More

Let’s Start a Conversation! part 5

Health = Community belonging A community that offers support, respect, & opportunities to particpate helps us all be healthy. Feeling included makes a difference! To learn more, check out this video! Video produced by the Wellesley Institute

Chatham-Kent FASD Network

Purpose: To support the enhancement of Chatham-Kent’s capacity to address the range of services and supports which relate to Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). Vision: Families and individuals affected by FASD will have the supports and information needed to improve their daily lives. Membership: Individuals or organizations with an interest, knowledge, and commitment to those with FASD. Meetings: 4 times … Read More