CALLING ALL DELAWARE MUNICIPALITIES: COMMUNITY HEALTH PROMOTION APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED THROUGH APRIL 12, 2013

Governor Markell's Council on Health Promotion and Disease Prevention is encouraging municipalities to apply for the Recognition for Community Health Promotion program. The program recognizes the efforts of Delaware municipalities who are championing the overall health and well being of their communities.

Delaware municipalities that incorporate health-promoting options as an integral part of their services and infrastructure are eligible to apply. The application can be accessed at www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph/dpc/chpdpcahp.html.All submission materials must be postmarked or emailed by April 12, 2013.

A healthy community has leaders that make needed structural and opportunity changes to transform the community into an inviting place in which to live, work, learn, worship and play. The majority of chronic diseases (the nation's greatest threat) are caused by sedentary lifestyles and poor diet, resulting in an obesity epidemic among adults and children. Healthy communities strive to prevent chronic diseases by promoting physical activity, discouraging tobacco use, and encouraging healthy foods and portions.

An information call will be hosted on March 20, 2013 at 1:30 p.m. to explain how to apply, how to complete the application, and to answer questions. The conference call information is 866-633-8871 and the meeting number is 738-507-294.

Municipalities recognized for their efforts in health promotion will receive a recognition plaque from the Governor's Council on Health Promotion and Disease Prevention.

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.