Community Groups Tackle Childhood Obesity

Community Groups Tackle Childhood Obesity

Saving the nation’s children from the ravages associated with childhood obesity is the mission of the Pioneering Healthier Communities (PHC) coalitions, funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation through the YMCA. One hundred ninety PHCs are operating throughout the United States and have the potential to impact up to 34 million Americans. These grassroots leaders are working on behalf of children and families by increasing access to physical activity, healthy food and food choices.  Additionally, these community activists are working to change policies and laws that hinder their progress toward achieving those goals.  In Marion County, Ohio, where over 30 percent of the youth are overweight, the PHC is also adding a “multi-platform network that provides continuing and consistent education on healthy eating and physical activity” and working collaboratively with other community-based organizations to ensure Marion is a healthy community for all its residents.

For more on the Marion, Ohio PHC, read: http://www.marionstar.com/article/20110703/OPINION/107030328