Dear Editor:
Type 2 diabetes, blood pressure and liver disease, just to name a few, are not the types of problems children and teenager should be worrying about. There is a nationwide epidemic sweeping the country that is jeopardizing our children’s lives and futures. Childhood obesity has risen by four times over the last 40 years; it is an issue that can be harnessed and controlled if the right steps are taken. The Alliance for a Healthier Generation teamed up with the American Heart Association and Clinton Foundation to create a Healthy Schools program for any school across the country who is striving towards a healthier school environment for our children.
The number of overweight children in our country is a growing problem but this problem can be harnessed with the implementation of the Healthy Schools Program in our elementary schools and high school. This program supports all schools and their individual needs and provides children with a constant reminder of eating healthy and the importance of exercise and physical activity. Along with an inspiring frame work that can help our children live healthier lives, this Healthy Schools Program recognizes individuals and school achievements and rewards them with either a bronze, silver, gold or platinum status.
Childhood obesity is not something that should be taken lightly; it is considered an epidemic because it is growing and it is growing fast. We have the power to fight this epidemic and make changes in our children’s lives from the beginning of their school careers. Other schools across the country have already implemented this program and have seen great results come from it; the children in North Bergen deserve the same opportunity to live a happier and healthier lifestyle.
Heather L. Boucher