“Obesity in children and adolescents is growing at a disturbing rate in the Unites States. It is a serious issue with health and social consequences that often continue into adulthood. The prevalence of obesity among children has risen dramatically over the last two decades.

Implementing prevention programs, changing behavioral habits, and getting a better understanding of treatment options are important to controlling the obesity epidemic in children.”

– Minnesota Department of Health

Current Initiatives Include:

• Increasing access and use of School and Community Gardens
• Supporting school wellness policies
• Supporting the Farm2School program in Freeborn County schools
• Partnering to provide “Healthy Snack Carts” in all Freeborn County Elementary Schools
• Supporting healthy eating in licensed child care and pre-school setting

Resources:

• MDH Schools SHIP fact sheet
• Learning About Nutrition through Activites
• University of Minnesota Extension service: Nutrition
• Albert Lea Family YMCA
• Out of School Activity Guide 2011-12
• Safe Routes to School
• The President’s Challenge

Links

Community Education:

• Albert Lea Area Community Education

K-12:

• Albert Lea Schools
• Glenville-Emmons Schools
• Alden-Conger
• Hollandale Christian
• St Theodore Catholic School

Pre-School:

• Building Blocks Pre-school
• Albert Lea Children’s Center
• The Montessori Children’s House of Albert Lea
• Freeborn County Licensed Child Care Providers
• Early Childhood Special Education

Post Secondary:

• Riverland Community College