Kristie Daniel is the contact for our Livable Cities program.
The Livable Cities program improves the livability and resiliency of cities by promoting equitable access to inclusive public spaces that foster physical activity, healthy eating, and social connection.
Kristie Daniel is the contact for our Livable Cities program.
Urban areas continue to grow across the globe, with over half of the world’s population living in cities. How cities are built and grow can greatly affect health, the environment, and quality of life. Low and middle-income countries in particular are facing significant burdens as a result of growth of cities. At the same time, climate change and political conflict are intensifying existing urban challenges.
Studies show that the way cities are built impacts people's:
A livable city is well designed and compact. It allows people to walk to school and work, and to stores, parks and restaurants. It permits them to take transit to places outside of their neighbourhoods, and provides them with access to sanitation, water, clean air, safe affordable housing and healthy foods.
A livable city also ensures that everyone has access to parks and public spaces. It is a place where everyone, including women, children, people living in poverty, and people living with disabilities are able to meet their day-to-day needs and enjoy community life.
The work we do to improve livability in cities has resulted in some key impacts on the health and wellbeing of people in vulnerable situations around the world.
Our work with local partners in advocating for healthy, safe and accessible public spaces has resulted in major policy decisions that have improved people’s communities.
In Jaffna, Sri Lanka, open public spaces are helping to heal the community after years of civil war. Our partners are improving open public spaces in the city through infrastructure changes such as adding shaded seating, play areas, and better walking and cycling connections. They have created a healing garden and have added an accessible outdoor library that can be used by all members of the community.
In Hanoi, Vietnam, streets were redesigned around schools to improve safety by adding features like lower speed limits, wider sidewalks, and safer crossings. This makes it easier and safer for children travelling to and from school.
In Kampala, Uganda, access to food has improved by upgrading local markets. Our partners have renovated vendor stalls and created supportive services like on-site childcare.
These examples highlight just some of the work Livable Cities program does to improve community resilience. The activities and advocacy efforts lead to lasting policy changes and improved health and quality of life in cities.
We are always interested in hosting volunteers to do meaningful work that matches your skills and interests.
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, send your cover letter and CV to admin@healthbridge.ca.