FUNDING AVAILABLE IN THE OBESITY FIGHT

Obesity is the second most preventable cause of death in the U.S. and has reached epidemic proportions. Poor nutrition and physical inactivity are the major contributing factors, but even our own environments seem to make healthy choices more difficult. We need to make some changes.

The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) is pleased to announce that a two-year funding opportunity is available to support two Delaware municipalities in implementing a sustained approach to healthy eating and active living. The Municipal Wellness Leadership Program assists with planning, assessing, initiating or expanding environmental systems to support healthy lifestyles.

"This is a wonderful opportunity. People need support to change their behavior. Where we live, work and learn should provide that support which makes being active and eating healthy the easy choices,"said Dr. Karyl Rattay, DPH Director.

To apply for this funding, municipalities led by city/town mayor or management must be able to mobilize a partnership that includes representatives from schools, businesses and municipal, governmental, faith-based and community organizations. The deadline to send responses to this grant is June 15, 2010 at 11:30 a.m. A pre-bid meeting is required. The meeting will be May 11, 2010 at 10:00am at the following location.

Delaware Health and Social Services
Herman Holloway, Sr. Social Services Campus
Main Administration Building, Sullivan Street, 1st Floor, Room 198
1901 N. Dupont Highway, New Castle, DE 19720

All bidders who wish to bid on this proposal must be present on time at this mandatory pre-bid meeting.

The initiative is part of the Delaware Coalition for Healthy Eating and Active Living's comprehensive plan to address obesity, which is associated with serious health risks such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke and some cancers. The Coalition represents organizations and agencies within the state working to promote physical activity and healthy nutrition through multiple levels of the society.

For more information about this opportunity please contact Michelle Eichinger at (302) 744-1011.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.