Grant will support obesity prevention in Durham Public Schools
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Dr. Bert L’Homme, Associate Superintendent Instructional Services, 560-3716
Grant will support obesity prevention in Durham Public Schools
DURHAM—Durham Public Schools has received a $442,000 grant to implement a pilot program designed to equip young people with the information and skills necessary to prevent them from becoming overweight.
The North Carolina Health and Wellness Trust Fund Commission announced last week that Durham Public Schools will receive the funding to be used over the next three years as part of a statewide campaign to address the epidemic of obesity in North Carolina.
The funds will be used to implement additional physical activity programs in all elementary schools and after-school programs, expand the DINE for LIFE program to three additional schools for a total of 13, and bolstering effectiveness of communication with the Latino community. The number of overweight or obese adults and overweight children comprises nearly half of Durham County’s overall population, and it is increasing.
Durham Public Schools’ efforts to secure this grant are in collaboration with El Centro Hispano, Durham County Health Department, Durham Regional Hospital, Durham Health Partners, Family Counseling Service, YMCA of Greater Durham, and Lincoln Community Health Center.
“Good health is essential for a student’s level of achievement in the classroom and, indeed, in life,” said Superintendent Ann T. Denlinger. “We are pleased to join local health and child support agencies to ensure that our young people receive the support they need to be healthy and successful.”
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