Community grants available for preventing obesity, tobacco use

April 7, 2010

Summary

Federal stimulus grant makes funds available to community agencies, schools, and local governments

Story

King County communities will have an opportunity to take advantage of $25.5 million in grant funds for projects to prevent obesity and tobacco use, thanks to two highly-competitive federal grants awarded to Public Health - Seattle & King County over the next two years.

“Obesity and tobacco use are leading contributors to premature illness, death and health care costs locally and nationwide, so these grant funds are a great opportunity to help our communities pay for changes that will have lasting effects,” said Councilmember Larry Phillips. “I encourage community agencies and schools with creative solutions to apply.”

The grant, called “Community Putting Prevention to Work,” will primarily fund community agencies, schools, businesses and local governments in working to change policies, systems and environments to make healthier choices easier and more accessible for everyone. The majority of the funding will be targeted to those communities in King County most affected by obesity and tobacco. The grant will be distributed by Public Health through an Request for Proposal (RFP) process.

Examples of eligible grant activities include supporting corner stores in offering more healthy options, providing healthier foods in schools and childcare facilities, restricting tobacco marketing and providing smoke-free environments, and promoting city planning, zoning and transportation that is pedestrian and bike friendly. The goal is that every King County resident will have access to healthy choices and opportunities for healthy living.

Goals of the grant include:
• Increase levels of physical activity and healthy nutrition
• Decrease rates of overweight and obesity
• Decrease smoking rates, smoking initiation by teens and exposure to secondhand smoke
• Reduce health inequities by focusing on communities with the greatest disadvantage

Potential applicants should submit a letter of intent prior to applying for funds. Letters are due April 21st. Click here for details.