“Sexual Health Matters”

Newsletter: Spring 2010

Sexual Health Centre for Cumberland County (SHCCC)

United Way of Cumberland County Member-Agency

President: Amanda Atkinson; Executive Director: Ruthie Patriquin

Contact us:

In Person: 11 Elmwood Dr. (Side door) By Mail: P.O. Box 661 Amherst, NS. B4H 4B8

By Phone: 902- 667-7500 By Email: shccc@ns.aliantzinc.ca

Spring Special Event

Sexual Health Centre for Cumberland County Presents:

Sheree Fitch

“Lessons I Keep Learning: Unprotected Sex, Unplanned Pregnancy, and Single Parenthood”

Wednesday, April 28^th, 2010 from 7 to 9pm

At Burgess Hall-Trinity St. Stephen’s United Church

(Corner of Havelock & Ratchford Streets) Amherst, NS

Presented for: Go Girl: Self Esteem Workouts for girls ages 9-13.

A Fundraiser in Support of Girl Power

Sheree Fitch reads from her women’s poetry, adult novel Kiss the Joy As it Flies, and her senior teen novel out this Fall which deals with teenage sexuality and pregnancy. Vanessa Blanch of CBC Moncton will interview Fitch on her life and writing. There will also be live local music and desserts.

Tickets $15 each or $25 (1 adult + 1 teen)

Tickets Available at: Canada Post, Oxford

In Amherst at: Gordon’s Ladies Wear - Amherst Centre Mall

Pugsley’s Pharmacy – Corner of Victoria & Church Streets

Sexual Health Centre - 11 Elmwood Dr., (side entrance)

Sexual Health Centre for Cumberland County is launching a new website www.forgirls.ca

In support of their award-winning “Girl Power” program

Website created by Rebecca Shatford, one of last year’s Go Girl counselors.

The International Day Against Homophobia, May 17

Speaking about Silence: Homophobia in the Sports World

At a time when there is an emphasis on encouraging children and youth to be more physically active, shouldn't we be doing all we can to ensure that all children (including gay and lesbian) feel welcome in the world of sports?

At the present time, many young people who are gay or lesbian do not feel welcome in the sports world.  They see how their peers (and others who are perceived to be gay or lesbian) are the target of jokes or taunts.  If they do join a sport, they often feel they have to hide this aspect of themselves to be accepted.  "Silence becomes master of the game."  Many choose to avoid sports altogether in order to avoid the homophobia that often exists. Fighting prejudice is all of society's concern. 

If you are a coach, parent, athlete involved in sports, you can speak out and take action to help put an end to homophobia in sports right in your own communities. Contact SHCCC for information or www.homophobiaday.org.

World Hepatitis Day, May 19, 2010

“Am I Number 12?”

“Am I Number 12” campaign, this year’s World Hepatitis Day theme “This is hepatitis…” aims to tell the human story of viral hepatitis and continue the battle of raising awareness of hepatitis B and C around the world. About 500 million people -- one in 12 worldwide -- are living with chronic viral hepatitis B or C.  In Canada, it is estimated that 600,000 people are infected and many don’t know it. It is possible for Hepatitis to be transmitted through sexual contact. Be informed.

New Grant Approvals

STI Pamphlet for Aging Nova Scotians- Grant Approved

The Positive Aging Fund (PAF), through Nova Scotia’s Department of Seniors, is providing funding for the Sexual Health for Cumberland County to produce an information brochure targeting Nova Scotia’s aging population. The Positive Aging Strategy cites a growing incidence of Sexual Transmitted Infections (STI) among people aged 50 and over.

Many in this population, for different reasons, will seek new relationships, and they may become vulnerable to STI. They may not feel safe or comfortable talking with potential sexual partners about safer sex. Those in long-term relationships may be at risk for STI if they or their partner has extra-marital sexual contact. Many family doctors do not think to talk about sexual health with older patients. Aging Nova Scotians grew up in a time when sexual health information was generally not provided as part of their schooling.

If you are over 50 you can help with the project.

Absolutely no experience with STI required.

Join a focus group (2 meetings maximum) to provide input regarding:

Content and format of the pamphlet, distribution, promotion, etc.

The first meeting will be Wed., May 12 at 7 p.m. in Amherst

Want to help but do not like groups? We will meet with you individually.

A small honorarium will be paid to those who volunteer for this project.

To join the focus group or for more information,

Contact Ruthie at SHCC 667-7500.

Postponing Youth Sexual Involvement DVD

Cumberland County Community Health Boards have contributed $ 5999.68 to SHCCC to produce a Postponing Youth Sexual Involvement DVD. The DVD will support the Worth Waiting (Grade 6) Program and will also be available to youth serving groups throughout the county.

This project will be carried out by Catherine Bussiere, a local, professional film maker. Catherine will involve youth at various stages of the production.

Our goal is to produce a DVD that will:

· Help youth develop healthy decision-making skills.

· Help youth resist sexual pressures.

· Be credible to youth.

Suitable DVD’s have not been found for purchase.

This exciting endeavor is not the first time SHCCC has supported video productions. In 1988-89, with a Health Canada grant, we produced Loving Yourself, the first Canadian sexuality education video for deaf and hard of hearing youth and their families. In 2008, we funded the DVD production of a First Baptist Youth Group production: The Birds and the Berries.

Youth interested in participating in any capacity of the DVD production,

should contact SHCCC 667-7500. Not all who apply will be chosen.

5 Facts About the Sex Lives of Canadians

1. The average sexual session, including foreplay, lasts between 10 to 30 minutes.
2. Fifty percent of women say their body image interferes with their sex life.
3. Thirty-eight percent of women own a vibrator.
4. Fifty-nine percent of Canadians say they have sex weekly.
5. Canadian men average 23 sex partners, 10 more than American men, at 13 partners, which is the global average.

Sources: Sun Media-Leger Marketing poll, 2007; Durex Global Sex Survey, 2007/08;

Chatelaine sex survey, 2008

SHCCC Fundraising Event

Win 5 Home made Meals (Main course and dessert to serve 4)

Choose 5 from 6 possible meals:

· Mediterranean Chicken, Baked Potatoes, Cookies

· Turkey Stew, Rolls, Chocolate Cake

· Chicken Broccoli Divan (casserole), Rolls, Pistachio Squares

· Ham, Mashed Potatoes, Carrots, Brownies

· Thai Chicken Noodle Soup, Biscuits, Banana Bread

· Beef Barley Soup, Rolls, Apple Crisp

Delivered in Amherst (Monday to Friday) by end of June, 2010

Draw Date May 6, 2010

Tickets $2.00 each or 3/$5.00

Tickets Available from the Sexual Health Centre for Cumberland County

11 Elmwood Dr. (side entrance)

Thank you for supporting The Sexual Health Centre for Cumberland County

Girl Power Wish List

The Award Winning Go Girl: Self-Esteem Program for adolescent girls is being offered once again. Girls (ages 9-13), will have a chance to attend these great workshops during July and August. Dates will soon be confirmed. A lot of supplies are needed and you can help!

Here is our WISH LIST:

· 1000 sheets brightly colored photocopy paper

· sheets of stickers (please: no Barbie or other stickers that stereo type girls)

· Crayola markers (tons please)

· cloth markers (fabric markers)

· solid glue sticks

· white Paper (photocopy paper)

· 5 bags wrapped candy (no nuts)

· water balloons (tons please)

· Scotch Tape(5)

· clear garbage bags (20)

· box of crackers (10)

· envelopes (200-business size)

· Kleenex (1 box)

· Cheeto=s (3 bags)

· large scissors

· paper towels

· alphabet beads (beads with the letters of the alphabet on them)

· shower caps (disposable ones)

· “post-it” Notes

· CASH B quarters, loonies, toonies, fivers, ten-spots, twenties, fiftiesY

There is much more that we need to run the program, from milk and juice to fruits and vegetables for healthy snacks. Your financial contribution will help us to cover these expenses and will be greatly appreciated.

Thank you very much!!!

Help a girl discover her APOWERS@:

Positive qualities, strengths or skills that each girl has or can develop.

If you as an individual, group, or organization would like to help in anyway, please contact us or drop off- donations at:

Sexual Health Centre for Cumberland County

11 Elmwood Dr. (side entrance), Amherst, NS

Tel: 902-667-7500

*** In order for us to complete program preparations on time,

please have donations in by June 14, 2010 (or call us for pickup).

THANKS!

Go Girl: Self Esteem Workouts (building "Girl Power")

This is an award-winning summer workshop to promote "Girl Power".

Each workshop lasts two-four days and several are offered during July and August.

Girls, ages 9-13, attend from approx. 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. each day.

Programs are offered at various locations around Cumberland County. Check our website www.forgirls.ca or contact SHCCC at 667-7500 for more information.

Our Program is based on the FOUR conditions for high self esteem:

· Feeling Connected

· Becoming aware of your Individuality.

· Confidence

· Valuable role models

How much is the program?

$45 for the four day program

$20 for the two day program

Need help with the fee? No Problem...Ask us for a sponsor.

Student Employment Opportunity

Go Girl: Self Esteem Workouts

Student Employment (contingent on funding)

Staff needed for 7-8 weeks of work during July and August.

Must have completed minimum of grade 11. Funding bodies require that students be returning to school in the fall. Required characteristics: excellent verbal and written communication skills, friendly and outgoing, team player, and excellent role model for adolescent girls. Previous experience working with the target group an asset. Transportation to job sites required. Individuals who have successfully worked with the program in the past and meet all other criteria will be given first priority for positions.

To Apply:

Email resumes to (preferred) or

Drop off at 11 Elmwood Dr., Amherst (side door only - by chance or appt.)

Include references please.

Deadline: May 14, 2010

New Resources in our Library

For Ages 4 and Up:

“It’s Not the Stork!” by Robie H. Harris

A Book about Girls, Boys, Babies, Bodies, Families and Friends.

For Ages 8 and Up:

“Ready, Set, Grow!” by Lynda Madaras

“A “What’s Happening to My Body?” Book for Younger Girls”

On Your Mark, Get Set, Grow!” by Lynda Madaras

“A “What’s Happening to My Body?” Book for Younger Boys”

Parent Kits to Borrow from our Library:

No Secrets….Just the Facts ( for parents of children ages 0 – 8)

Why Do I Need This Kit? It helps children:

• feel good about being girls or boys

• develop healthy, positive feelings about their bodies

• know the correct words for body parts and functions

• know the difference between public and private

• know that sexual feelings are part of being human

• come to their parents for correct information

The Changing Years ( for parents of 9-12 year olds.)

What’s Changing?

Your Child:

She or he is going to begin puberty, which means…

· Physical changes

· Emotional changes

· Changes in attitude

· Worries about being “normal”

Your Relationship with your child:

· Your child will want more independence, but still needs your love, guidance, support and patience.

· Prepare your child ahead of time to help make this change a positive one.

· Children want, and need, sexual health information from their parents.
The Sexual Health Centre for Cumberland County is a

non-profit organization operated by a local Board of Directors.

We work to promote informed, responsible attitudes toward sexuality. Our services are available to all members of the community and are offered in an environment that respects and supports each individual. We believe that individuals have the right to accurate, reliable, confidential, and unbiased information and services. View our website at www.cumberlandcounty.cfsh.info.

Check out our services:

ü Borrow a book or information kit for you or your child

ü Sign up for a program

ü Book a presentation for your school class or community group

ü Pick up free condoms and lubrication

ü Schedule a pregnancy test

ü Look at our birth control kit

ü Pick up a copy of Wayves

ü Individual guidance and referral

Hours of Operation:

Monday - Thursday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

By Chance or By Appointment*

* Although we are under-funded, we make every effort to maintain regular office hours. Sometimes it is not possible to cover the office when staff have to do community presentations, attend meetings, etc. We apologize if you have dropped by and found the office closed during the above times. You may find it helpful to phone in advance: 667-7500.

Please help us make a difference:

• make a donation___
• become a member/renew membership($10.00)__

Name_____________________________

Address___________________________

___________ Postal code_________

Phone:____________

Complete and mail or drop in to:

Sexual Health Centre for Cumberland County
11 Elmwood Dr. (side entrance)
P.O. Box 661, Amherst, NS B4H 4B8

Call us for more information: 667-7500

Donations are tax deductible!

Thank you very much.

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