Addressing the Childhood Obesity Epidemic in Southeastern Georgia through a Community Coalition - An Applied Approach

Childhood obesity is growing at an alarming rate in the state of Georgia. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that 15% of children in Georgia are classified as obese. Research suggests that communities play a critical role in addressing the overweight and obesity crisis. Recently, the Bulloch County Health Department received funding for a Nutrition and Physical Activity Demonstration Project from the Georgia Division of Public Health. The aim of the project is to strengthen the Children’s Health Improvement and Lifestyle Development (C.H.I.L.D.) Coalition, whose goal is to help increase childhood physical fitness and healthy eating habits in the Bulloch County area. The purpose of this paper is to discuss steps taken that helped this organization develop the C.H.I.L.D. Coalition. Information from this paper may help other communities begin childhood health initiatives.