The Alternative Press

On October 18, 2012, the South Mountain YMCA will be celebrating the start of the second phase of the Horizon Healthy U Initiative. Healthy U provides an evidence-based program for the prevention of childhood obesity. This year we will integrate the program into our preschool curriculum, further our commitments in our afterschool programs, and in some school districts, pilot a school based program. The Healthy U program uses a CATCH curriculum to promote physical activity, healthy eating, and healthy family behaviors by providing a supportive learning environment. We will be on of 80 YMCA preschool sites / 368 Afterschool childcare sites / ten elementary schools who will be partnering with Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of NJ in implementing this proven method.

Obesity in America is at epidemic levels. In New Jersey 1 in 3 school age children are either overweight or obese. We have the highest incident of obesity in low-income children aged two to five years in the nation. These children risk developing serious health problems in adulthood, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke and several types of cancer. Already we are seeing diabetes being diagnosed at younger ages. We at the South Mountain YMCA and the Horizon Foundation know we can make a positive impact on the youth and their families to help reverse this crisis.

This state wide kick-off will publically announce the new initiative and provide education and awareness about the program. We would like you to be part of our celebration scheduled:

October 18, 2012
4:00-6:00 p.m.
South Mountain YMCA
13 Jefferson Avenue
Maplewood, NJ 07040
973-762-4145

http://www.smountainymca.org

Our program will include: Mila Jacey; State Assemblywoman, CATCH games, healthy snacks, health lessons and baby gym activities.