Funding Awards - August 2005
Reducing the Prevalence of Overweight Initiative

Children's Hunger Alliance to facilitate central Ohio's
Healthy & Fit plan

The Osteopathic Heritage Foundation has approved $368,502 to Columbus-based Children's Hunger Alliance to facilitate implementation of Healthy & Fit: A Community Action Plan for Children & Families

This recently-published plan to improve nutrition and promote exercise and healthy weights among Franklin County children and families was commissioned by the Foundation and its development coordinated by Children's Hunger Alliance. The year-long planning process involved hundreds of parents, children, educators, human service agencies, business leaders, health professionals and others who influence children's behavior.

For the next three years, Children's Hunger Alliance will work to enhance and expand the work of these community members, facilitating collaborative implementation of the plan. Primary focus will be on generating resources, encouraging collaboration and coordination within the community, implementing a social marketing effort, effecting policy change and evaluating the initiative's progress.

"The Foundation will remain involved in this priority initiative to create an environment that supports life-long, healthy food and fitness behaviors in Franklin County children and families through the efficient and effective coordination of community resources," said Rick Vincent, Foundation president.