Integrating Healthy Equity in the Planning, Implementation, and Evaluation of Obesity Prevention Interventions in Minneapolis, Minnesota

The Minneapolis Department of Health and Family Support (MDHFS) is working to reduce and prevent obesity, especially in geographic areas such as North Minneapolis where large minority and low-income populations experience high rates of unhealthy weight, poor nutrition, and inadequate physical activity. To address these health disparities, MDHFS has prioritized health equity in planning, implementation, and evaluation activities by: „X Concentrating resources in an area with significant health disparities; „X Collaborating with partners who have worked successfully with communities of color and low-income populations; „X Utilizing community input from priority populations to inform ongoing decision-making; and „X Structuring evaluation tools/methods to measure impact in priority populations In this session, participants will learn about the process, challenges, and successes of incorporating health equity into key initiatives including: „X Implementing EBT and Market Bucks at farmers markets; „X Conducting community engagement to guide expansion of the Nice Ride bike share system; „X Creating a Local Food Resource Network and Neighborhood Hubs; „X Customizing Safe Routes to School plans; and „X Increasing park safety and utilization As a result of using health equity to guide efforts in North Minneapolis, the community has experienced significant environmental changes that have increased access to physical activity and healthy foods. A health equity focus has helped ensure that resources are directed toward populations most affected by obesity and health disparities. This approach has resulted in stronger partnerships, meaningful community involvement, and an environment where residents with the greatest needs are connected to affordable, convenient and accessible resources.