To address the growing obesity epidemic in Michigan, the Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) released the Michigan Health and Wellness 4 x 4 Plan in June 2012. In taking one of the first steps outlined by the Plan, MDCH has announced that six coalitions have been selected to implement this initiative across the state. The Greater Flint Health Coalition (GFHC) has been selected as one of these model coalitions to implement the 4 x 4 Plan in Genesee County/Flint.
“These grants will assist community coalitions in implementing strategies that impact weight status, proper nutrition, physical activity and ultimately the success of our communities,” said James K. Haveman, Director of the MDCH. “I commend these coalitions for their dedication to this effort and look forward to watching their progress as we work together to reduce obesity in Michigan.”
Through a collaborative effort and local partnerships, the 4 x 4 Plan outlines the strategy to deploy local coalitions to implement the plan in their communities. The focus of the coalitions is to improve health by creating healthier communities, expand prevention activities and empower people to make healthy choices and ultimately adopt health as a core personal value.
The GFHC, its member organizations, and a collective of community-based partners will promote the 4 x 4 Plan to residents via an expansion of the ongoing Commit to Fit! campaign, while GFHC partner the Genesee County Medical Society will serve a major role activating local medical providers to engage patients in better understanding and practicing the 4 x 4 Plan’s health behaviors and measures.
“Obesity and its related health conditions can often be the cause of unhealthy behaviors we can all change by eating healthier foods and proper portions, being physically active at least 30 to 60 minutes per day, and by avoiding tobacco use,” said Kirk Smith, President & CEO, Greater Flint Health Coalition. “By continuing to engage our residents to live healthier via the Commit to Fit! campaign in cooperation with the state’s 4 x 4 Plan, our residents can begin to see improvements in their personal health.”
To get started with Commit to Fit!, Genesee County/Flint residents can visit http://www.commit-2-fit.org today and sign up at no cost. For more information about the Michigan Health and Wellness 4 x 4 Plan, the 4 x 4 tool, and more related resources, visit http://www.michigan.gov/healthymichigan.
