Cleveland Clinic and the City of Cleveland partner to improve the lives of Cleveland residents

Cleveland Clinic and the City of Cleveland, Ohio are collaborating to improve the lives and lengthen the lifespan of Cleveland residents. This collaboration began after Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson and Dr. Delos ‘Toby' Cosgrove met in October 2010 to discuss the health of Cleveland. From this meeting was born the Healthy Cleveland Resolution. Cleveland Clinic is a world-renowned healthcare institution and the second largest employer in Ohio. Policies were instituted within Cleveland Clinic facilities to encourage improved health and wellness among the 40,000 employees. These include: banning smoking on all campuses; not hiring individuals who smoke; eliminating trans-fats and sugar-sweetened beverages from all cafeterias and vending machines; and establishing programs promoting increased physical activity. Recent City successes include the banning of smoking in public spaces (including parks and cemeteries) and near entrances of public buildings. Restaurants and vendors operating in Cleveland have also been encouraged to eliminate the use of trans-fats. Following the example of Cleveland Clinic, the City of Cleveland has also transformed vending machines in public buildings, such as City Hall and recreation centers by removing sugar-sweetened beverages. The Healthy Cleveland Resolution also includes improved policies for the Cleveland Metropolitan School District, with whom Cleveland Clinic is also partnering. These include: placing community gardens in every school and within reach of every resident and ensuring that all new road construction includes sidewalks and bike lanes. Success would not be possible without the collaboration and committed leadership from both Cleveland Clinic and the City of Cleveland.