RWJF Doubles Financial Commitment to Expand Programs Aimed at Reducing Childhood Obesity, Issues Priorities for Next Decade
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) will reportedly commit $500 million over the next 10 years to intensified efforts ensuring that “all children in the United States—no matter who they are or where they live—can grow up at a healthy weight.” According to a February 5, 2015, news release, the health philanthropy’s new initiatives will focus on developing strategies to reducing the health disparities that contribute to higher rates of obesity among children of color and children living in poverty.
“We have made substantial progress, but there is far more to do and we can’t stop now,” said RWJF President and CEO Risa Lavizzo-Mourey “We all have a role to play in our homes, schools, and neighborhoods to ensure that all kids have healthy food and safe places to play.”
RWJF’s stated priorities for the next decade include (i) eliminating sugar-sweetened beverage consumption among 0- to 5-year-olds; (ii) making a “healthy school environment the norm and not the exception across the United States”; (iii) making physical activity “a part of the everyday experience for children and youth”; and (iv) making “healthy foods and beverages the affordable, available and desired choice in all neighborhoods and communities.” See RWJF Press Release, February 5, 2015.
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