The Harlem Globetrotters are set to spearhead a nationwide public awareness campaign focusing on the crucial connection between nutrition and physical activity. Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina is taking a significant step by introducing nutrition coaching and a healthy food delivery program as a standard benefit for its members. Additionally, sixteen cities across the United States are gearing up to establish task forces or formulate action plans aimed at eradicating hunger and curbing diseases associated with diet by the year 2030.
These initiatives are part of a larger effort that includes over 140 commitments from various entities such as health systems, insurance companies, nonprofit organizations, philanthropic groups, and local governments. These commitments are in response to a White House challenge to combat hunger and foster healthy communities.
An announcement of $1.7 billion in new commitments was made at the White House, with notable figures like chef Jose Andres and WNBA player Elena Delle Donne present alongside administration officials. Andres and Delle Donne lead the President's Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, an advisory body dedicated to promoting healthy eating habits and physical exercise.
These recent pledges supplement the $8 billion in commitments unveiled in September 2022 during the White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health. President Joe Biden had declared a goal to eliminate hunger and reduce diet-related illnesses by 2030 while addressing health disparities.
According to the Economic Research Service at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, approximately 12.8% of households in the U.S., totaling around 17 million, faced challenges in accessing adequate food resources in 2022, marking an increase from 10.2% in the previous year.
Building on these efforts, a recent announcement by Doug Emhoff highlighted the commitment of more than a dozen sports leagues and players' associations, ranging from the NFL to the PGA Tour, to expand opportunities for individuals to engage in physical activities, gain knowledge about nutrition, and embrace healthier lifestyles.
