Childhood Obesity

Rep. Fudge’s Legislation Addressing Childhood Obesity

 

o Comprehensive Child Obesity Legislation: Rep. Fudge is working on comprehensive legislation to decrease child obesity in rural, low-income, and Native America communities, since they are hardest hit by this epidemic.

o National Childhood Obesity Awareness MONTH: Rep. Fudge introduced a resolution designating September 2010 as National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month. This is a bi-partisan effort, support by the Congressional Spouses and over 50 National organizations, including the US Conference of Mayors, YMCA, and the American Medical Association.

o House Sponsors: Representatives Fudge (D-OH) and Granger (R-TX)

o Senate Sponsors: Senators Voinovich (R-OH) and Gillibrand (D-NY)

o National Youth Sports Program: Along with 75 college and universities, I plan to reauthorize the National Youth Sports Program, which is a summer program that addresses obesity and the lack of physical activity among low-income children.

Rep. Fudge’s Events Encouraging Community and Family Wellness

o Girls Empowerment Summit: The Northeast Ohio Summit, to be held this summer, will empower four hundred 10-12 year old girls and their parents to make healthy choices and develop a positive self-image.

o Health Empowerment Summit: Over 500 constituents participated in Rep. Fudge’s community health fair last August. During the morning forum, adults attended sessions on fitness, nutrition and weight management. Children participated in interactive workshops on “How to be a Healthy Kid.” The afternoon expo featured free health screenings.