Goal 2: Improve access to healthy foods and physical activity for
children and their families, particularly in underserved communities
Anticipated Impact
Increased access to healthy foods and physical activity increases the likelihood that
children and families will engage in healthy behaviors, ultimately resulting in more
positive health outcomes. Additionally, successful enhancements in funding for
healthy lifestyle and obesity prevention services will improve access to these types of
services and supports, particularly for underserved populations.
Strategy 2.1
Engage in local, state and federal public policy advocacy efforts aimed at improving
access to healthy lifestyle and obesity prevention services.
Tactic: Advocate for adequate reimbursement from public and private health insurance
payors to providers for healthy weight screening, counseling and referrals, as well as
incorporation of preventative programming that has demonstrated health outcomes.
Tactic: Explore potential financing mechanisms (ex – social impact bonds, mill levy,
soda tax, etc.) to fund access to healthy food and physical activity for families such
as physical education in schools, bike/pedestrian routes, food programs, recreation
centers, and more.
Tactic: Advocate for and serve as expert resource for state and federal policy
initiatives surrounding child nutrition, physical activity, and healthy lifestyles. For
instance, positively influencing child care regulations regarding sleep, nutrition, and
physical activity; advocating for quality of and funding for federal child nutrition
programs like WIC, school breakfast and lunch programs.
Tactic: Identify other policy priorities as appropriate.
Tactic: Train and mobilize families and providers to engage in and support
policies and initiatives aimed at enhancing access to healthy lifestyle and obesity
prevention services.
Tactic: Utilize media, social media, and grassroots communications to build public will
to support policies and initiatives aimed at enhancing funding for healthy lifestyle and
obesity prevention services.
Community Health Action Plan
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