Community Driven Policy, Systems and Environmental Changes to Address Childhood Obesity

Healthy Kids, Healthy Communities (HKHC), a national program of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF), aims to catalyze policy and environmental changes that result in increased opportunities for physical activity and access to healthy, affordable foods for children and families. Louisville is one of nine leading sites and 50 communities overall. Louisville's HKHC initiative is directed by the Healthy Hometown Movement, a well established coalition of government agencies, non-profits, citizens, and community organizations. The focus is in 12 neighborhoods with significant environmental and social barriers that hamper opportunities for healthy eating and active living. Restaurants and grocery stores that offer healthy foods are rare and existing recreational destinations such as parks and walking paths are often underutilized because of safety concerns. Despite the well defined block patterns in neighborhoods, many have poor connectivity due to deteriorating sidewalk infrastructure and roadway impediments that hinder walkability. During the initiative's first year, partners conducted walkability assessments and identified system and policy level priorities. Partners are working with Metro Parks to develop safe routes to a 100 mile bike and pedestrian path around the city; 1/4 is completed bordering HKHC designated neighborhoods. In addition, the Healthy in a Hurry Corner Store Initiative worked with stores to provide fresh produce in Louisville's food deserts. Finally, the initiative supported Photo Voice and digital storytelling workshops with youth to collect stories and share with policy makers to advocate change. This innovative project focuses on community driven environmental and systems changes through policy advocacy and non-traditional capacity building.