The United Way of Lackawanna County partnered with the Moses Taylor Foundation and Therapeutic Lifestyle Change Center (TLC) to offer Healthy Futures—a program to increase the physical activity level and nutritional education of children ages 5 through 12. The program is made possible through a grant by the Blue Ribbon Foundation and is being implemented in five youth/recreational agencies —Boys & Girls Clubs of NEPA, Jewish Community Center, Greater Carbondale YMCA, Greater Scranton YMCA and United Neighborhood Centers.

At the beginning of the school year, 367 children received height and weight screenings and their Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated. Each targeted age group saw children at the 95 percent BMI level—most at risk of being obese. However, the 8-, 9- and 10-year olds had the highest percentage of those children at the 95 percent BMI.

This year, the program was enhanced with additional nutritional education during which the children were instructed in how to read food labels, portion control, healthy choices in fast food restaurants and how to substitute healthy snacks. A psychologist was also invited to address the children at several sites related to positive body image. A monthly column in the Scranton Times•Tribune offered healthy living tips for families.

Among the specific outcomes achieved through Healthy Futures:

• 100% of the participating children’s families received information regarding nutrition and the importance of physical activity

• 100% of the participating children’s families received information on access to healthcare

• 100% of the children increased their nutritional knowledge

• 62% of the children met the goal of 60 minutes of physical activity at least four times per week.