Media Release

ALACHUA COUNTY, FL - Alachua County was one of thirty seven community champions throughout the State of Florida recognized by the Florida Department of Health’s “Healthiest Weight Florida” program, for its efforts in policy and environmental change that encourages physical activity and access to healthy foods.

Healthiest Weight Florida was launched by the State Surgeon General in 2013. It is a public-private collaboration bringing together state agencies, not for profit organizations, businesses, and entire communities to help Florida's children and adults make choices about healthy eating and active living.

Florida’s municipalities and counties were encouraged to submit an application for recognition to the Department of Health in February, 2014. The recognition is meant to celebrate local government’s efforts in policy and environmental change that encourages physical activity and access to healthy foods. The information gathered from the applications will be used to compile a list of best practices for the state. This allows communities to share their experiences in health policies and learn from each other.

According to the Healthiest Weight website, “Florida’s county and municipal governments play an important role in decreasing the prevalence of unhealthy weight in their jurisdictions. Local governments can implement a variety of policies that have been shown to increase physical activity levels and improve nutrition. These ‘best practice’ policies are reflected in the Healthy Weight Community Champion Recognition Program.”

Alachua County Employee Wellness Coordinator, Amy Childs said, “We were happy to be part of the Healthy Weight Community recognition process. It is always nice to hear that your efforts are making an impact in your community.” She continued, “The local health department’s Kourtney Oliver played an instrumental role in assisting us with the application process. It was a real team effort.”

Visit the Healthiest Weight Florida website.

For more information, contact Amy Childs at 352-264-6981 or achilds@alachuacounty.us.