MARTINSBURG — Take Back Our Health WV is a collaboration with the WV Bureau of Public Health and several organizations around the state, to combat obesity and chronic disease in West Virginia. The initiative aims to improve the health of West Virginians by increasing physical activity in communities, increasing workplace wellness, promoting access to healthy foods, and reducing tobacco use. The Take Back Our Health WV Physical Activity Grant Program will focus on improving the health of West Virginia by funding community partner projects that are increasing or improving pedestrian and bike infrastructure, increasing opportunities for physical activity for children throughout the school day and beyond, and creating opportunities for physical activity referrals in healthcare settings.
The Shenandoah Community Health Foundation used their $5,000 funding grant to restore an existing trail at Shenandoah Community Health’s 99 Tavern Road location in Martinsburg and encourage usage through clinical physical activity prescriptions and referrals and Walk with a Provider events.
“We are excited to put wind in the sails of the physical activity champions across the state who are already doing great work. These funds will hopefully allow them to expand their efforts for greater reach and effectiveness,” Sam Zizzi, Dr. Pat Fehl Endowed Professor and associate dean for research, CPASS, said.
Funded by the West Virginia Bureau of Public Health, Division of Health Promotion and Chronic Disease, the Center for ActiveWV at WVU College of Physical Activity and Sports Sciences and their partners are working to improve state and local programs/systems to increase access to physical activity.
To learn more about the Take Back Our Health WV initiative go to facebook.com/BeActiveWV or contact Rachel Byrne at [email protected]
