Hello.  My name is Diane Eynon.  I have been a passive participant in this
group until seeing Alana's comments.  I would agree with Alana's comments that
it is extremely important for people to understand and have a sense of control,
however small given conditions etc., concerning their health.  I think this
approach  will help to achieve long term goals and health status.

Diane Eynon

Alana LaPerle wrote:

> While I don't agree with policies or philosophies that blame the victims of
> poverty, I don't understand why it is wrong to question a "resources-only"
> response to child poverty. As health promoters isn't it our responsibility
> to help prevent people from falling into the river rather than simply
> pulling them out (or teaching them to swim)?
>
> Where does responsible decision-making fit? Shouldn't at least part of our
> response be to provide resources (e.g., jobs, education, social support,
> self-esteem) that help people make healthy choices, rather than simply
> providing resources after the fact? I think it is highly patronizing to say
> to poor people, "we do not expect you to make healthy choices, so we will
> just be there when you need help." How is that empowering?
>
> Alana
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