Article Details

Oct. 31, 2011
For immediate release

Kathy Toelkes, Director of Communications, 785-296-4876

Kansas receives USDA grants to help alleviate obesity, promote healthy eating and physical activity

TOPEKA – Kansas was recently announced as one of 31 states to receive federal grant monies aimed at helping school children develop positive nutrition and physical activity habits that can lead to healthier lifestyles. The grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture will provide training and technical assistance related to food service, as well as nutrition education for children and their caregivers, and school and community support for healthy eating and physical activity.

In total, Kansas received $349,971 in grants. Most of that, $300,062, came through a competitive grant designed to improve health and reduce overweight and obesity in individuals participating in child nutrition programs. The grant funds are to help implement the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans and provide evidence-based initiatives in nutrition, physical education and activity for children, teachers, parents and caregivers. It also provides technical assistance to schools to create or maintain a healthy school environment. 

Another $49,909 was awarded to the state in a non-competitive grant intended to support elementary and secondary schools applying for the HealthierUS School Challenge, a key component of First Lady Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move! initiative. Funds were awarded to states that guaranteed a specific number of HealthierUS Challenge applications during the grant period. Kansas has guaranteed 50 school applications for the program. The grant funds will provide technical assistance to schools applying for the HealthierUS School Challenge, including workshops, training and assistance from Dietitians. 

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