fruit2March 28, 2019 -- In recognition of National Nutrition Month, The Westchester County Youth Bureau has used social media to share information on healthy lifestyles and food choices. In addition, a new map of services found on the Westchester County Youth Bureau’s website allows end-users to select life areas such as physical and emotional health to find targeted, County-funded programs.

The Bureau has highlighted four of its funded agencies for their efforts to raise awareness about the importance of healthy habits for our children, youth and families:

The Let’s Get Physical Program, offered through the YWCA of White Plains, includes pediatric registered dieticians in their youth and family workshops to encourage healthy eating choices.

The YMCA of Central and Northern Westchester offers an Anti-Obesity Program, which supports family fitness goals and healthy lifestyles. The youth have the opportunity to prepare healthy snacks such as fruit salads and smoothies.

The White Plains Youth Bureaus’ Health & Fit for Life program offers youth K -12th grade a variety of health, wellness, fitness and nutritional activities for children and. In support of this initiative, Stop and Shop Supermarket allowed youth to tour the store to reinforce messaging on healthy food choices, proper cooking, hydration, and more. 

Westchester Jewish Community Services in conjunction with the Montefiore WIC program is hosting a Zumba class for youth and their families at their Parent Child Home Center in New Rochelle.

Westchester County Executive George Latimer said: “We appreciate the significant work demonstrated by our partners in supporting good nutrition and physical health in our communities. The obesity rates and other health statistics underscore how necessary it is to begin educating our children and youth as early as possible on good health behaviors.”

Executive Director of the Westchester County Youth Bureau Dr. DaMia Harris-Madden said: “Whether it is battling food insecurity or the saturation of unhealthy food advertisements, there is much to be done to ensure that our children have the tools for optimal health. For this reason, 34 percent of the 133 programs supported through the Youth Bureau have the main objective of physical and emotional health.”   

Director of the Early Childhood Parent Child Program Patrice Cuddy said: “Research studies show that nutrition in a child’s early years is linked to their health and academic performance. The Parent Child Center partners with Montefiore WIC program to provide parents with the necessary tools to understand the importance of good nutrition.”

YMCA Executive Director Bonnie Fogarty said: “At the Y, we believe charged up kids really do achieve amazing things, and there are no days off for a child’s developing mind and body. Through our strong presence and reach with children, Nutrition Month is a great opportunity to educate families and engage kids to stay physically and intellectually active.”

For additional tips on healthy eating including delicious and nutritious family recipes throughout the month of March, visit the Westchester County Youth Bureau’s Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/WCYouthBureau and Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/westchesteryouthbureau/

 

For more information, please contact the Westchester County Youth Bureau at (914) 995-2745.