Hannaford Supermarkets has announced a generous $1.3 million investment aimed at fostering child health and wellness across New England and New York. This funding is a significant part of their “Eat Well, Be Well – A Path to Better Health” initiative, which seeks to enhance accessibility to nutritious food and promote healthier lifestyles for children facing the risks associated with chronic diseases.
The funds will support various organisations, including Full Plates Full Potential and Let’s Go! in Maine, New Hampshire Hunger Solutions and Regenerative Roots Association in New Hampshire, Cornell University in New York, and Project Bread and Community Servings in Massachusetts. These programs will work to improve children’s access to healthy food options and encourage active lifestyles.
With nearly 20% of children aged 2-19 classified as obese in the United States, it highlights the urgent need to combat this issue, which can lead to serious health complications later in life. Hannaford’s donations will not only facilitate better food accessibility but will also bolster nutrition education initiatives for families, contributing to a healthier community.
Mike Vail, President at Hannaford Supermarkets, stated, “It’s essential we provide children with the right tools to develop healthy habits at an early age.” This commitment to community wellness through the support of meaningful initiatives sets the foundation for vibrant, health-conscious communities in the future.
One of the notable beneficiaries, Full Plates Full Potential, plans to utilise the grant to provide schools across Maine with fresh, wholesome meals, following new federal dietary guidelines. This initiative aims to replace heavily processed foods with a steady flow of nutritious offerings to nourish children’s growth and well-being.
David B. Waters, CEO of Community Servings, expressed excitement about the partnership with Hannaford, noting, “With Hannaford’s support… we will expand our Food is Medicine Nutrition Program.” This project will ensure that children and families benefit from medically tailored meals, addressing the vital intersection of nutrition and health.
In addition to the monetary grant, Hannaford will be donating $60,000 in gift cards to community partners to promote healthy snacking for children. This will further support the collective goal of enhancing community health and nutrition.
Since the launch of the “Eat Well, Be Well” initiative in September 2022, Hannaford has contributed over $4 million to local organisations aiming to eliminate barriers to healthy food access. They continue to stand as a beacon of community support and environmental stewardship in the Northeast region.
Hannaford Supermarkets has pledged $1.3 million to enhance child health and wellness initiatives across New England and New York. This funding will support multiple organizations in promoting healthier eating and active lifestyles among children. The investment aims to tackle childhood obesity and improve nutrition education, contributing to a healthier future for families in the community.
Hannaford Supermarkets’ recent $1.3 million investment in child health and wellness underscores a commitment to combat obesity and promote nutritious eating among children in New England and New York. Through partnerships with prominent organisations, they aim to enhance food accessibility and education, ultimately fostering lifelong healthy habits. This initiative reflects Hannaford’s dedication to building resilient communities while ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive positively.
Original Source: www.globenewswire.com
