The Florida Department of Health wants to recognize communities taking a Health in All Policies approach to comprehensive planning. Health in All Policies is a collaborative approach to improving health by incorporating health considerations into decision-making across sectors and policy areas. By implementing recommended policies, local governments can promote community environments where the healthy choice is the easier choice. Share your story and best practices for a chance to be recognized and receive technical assistance in advancing your efforts! Selected communities will be featured on the Florida Department of Health website.
Background
Obesity rates in the U.S. have increased dramatically over the last 30 years, reaching epidemic proportions. Obesity increases the risk for many serious health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and cancer. Obesity and associated chronic diseases have a considerable economic impact on communities and individuals, especially where availability and access to healthy foods and healthy spaces for physical activity are limited.
In Florida, only 33.9% of adults are at a healthy weight. In addressing this issue, the Florida Department of Health created the Healthy Community Champions Recognition Program.
The program recognizes communities taking a Health in All Policies approach to comprehensive planning, and provides a platform to share accomplishments, best practices, and lessons learned.
Health in All Policies, as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is a collaborative approach that integrates and articulates health considerations into policymaking across sectors to improve the health of all communities and people.
Local governments can play a pivotal role in improving public health by implementing policies and practices that have been shown to increase physical activity and improve nutrition. These “best practice” policies are reflected in the submission form. They also align with the 2017-2021 State Health Improvement Plan (SHIP).
The Healthy Community Champions Recognition provides opportunities to receive technical assistance to further adoption and implementation of Health in All Policies. State partners include the Florida Department of Transportation, Department of Economic Opportunity, Department of Environmental Protection, and others.
Apply Now
Visit http://www.healthiestweightflorida.com/recognition.html or https://flhbe.com/healthy-community-champions/ for guidance and to apply. Applicants should highlight policies and practices that reflect a Health in All Policies approach, emphasizing health and the built environment, physical activity, improved nutrition and access to healthy foods, and equity considerations.
Eligibility
Florida municipalities (cities, towns and villages) and counties are eligible to apply. Submissions must be made by a municipal or county official. Unincorporated areas may apply under the sponsorship of their county.
Timeline
June 10, 2019: Application window opens
August 15, 2019: Application window closes
November 1, 2019: Best practices posted & communities recognized
