Matthew Marsom, David Quackenbush, and Reba Meigs, MPA. Cancer Prevention and Nutrition Section, California Department of Health Services, 1616 Capitol Avenue, Suite 74.516, P.O. Box 942732, MS 7204, Sacramento, CA 94234, (916) 449-5431, mmarsom@dhs.ca.gov

The six Policy Action Teams of the California Nutrition Network and California 5 a Day Campaign Joint Steering Committee recommend policy measures that advance the healthy eating, physical activity, and food security goals of the Network and 5 a Day Campaign and thereby reduce the risk of chronic disease associated with overweight and obesity. In addition, the Policy Action Teams present a superb forum to discuss ancillary policy issues of importance within their area of concern, and an excellent opportunity to strengthen the linkages and partnership with the Network’s eleven Regional Collaboratives. The existing Policy Action Teams, which include: 5 a Day; Adults; Food Assistance; Children and Youth; Health Disparities; and Physical Activity, draw together funded programs, researchers, local advocates, state and federal agencies and partners, including policymakers, and are part of the larger Partnership Development Infrastructure that also comprises the Joint Steering Committee, an Executive Committee and Regional Collaboratives. Each Policy Action Team will continue to further priorities ratified by the Joint Steering Committee and identify new priorities for the 2005-2006 legislative session. Using specific examples from the work of the Policy Action Teams, this presentation will illustrate how effective public/private partnership – by strategically connecting the policy activities of community based programs and local advocates with state and federal partners – can provide leadership, advocacy, technical assistance, and support to influence and promote behavioral and environmental change for improved nutrition, physical activity and food security of Californians, especially low-income individuals and families.

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