In January 2008, the Government of NL’s Departments of Health and Community Services (HCS) and Tourism, Culture and Recreation (TCR) identified the need to support access to healthy food in recreation, sport, and community settings.

In March 2009, funding from the Public Health Agency of Canada and the Government of NL was approved for a one-year pilot project.

In its early years, EGAP focused on developing resources and tools to raise awareness about healthy eating among children and youth.

The Government of NL’s Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation continued to fund the program and expanded its partnership with Recreation Newfoundland & Labrador, establishing a permanent Dietitian coordinator position.

Over time, EGAP broadened its reach to include community members of all ages using recreation, sport, and community facilities. A steering committee, representing the Government of NL, Recreation NL, Sport NL, School Sports NL, and the Aboriginal Sport and Recreation Circle NL continue to guide the program. EGAP has strengthened community involvement through new partnerships with local groups, provincial sport organizations, and municipalities, and has delivered workshops to help food service providers offer healthier options. The program also launched a pilot funding initiative and introduced the Community Healthy Eating Award.