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Precor grant supports the YMCA of Delaware’s efforts to curb childhood obesity

September 26, 2013

The YMCA of Delaware received a $3,000 grant from Precor to support efforts to help children in Delaware live healthier lives through the implementation of the Y’s Healthy Eating and Physical Activity standards in early childhood and after-school programs. Adopting these standards is part of the Y’s commitment to first lady Michelle Obama and the Partnership for a Healthier America to help curb childhood obesity.

“As a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, the Y takes its responsibility seriously by helping those most in need,” said Deborah Bagatta- Bowles, new chief executive director of the YMCA of Delaware. “YMCAs are one of the largest providers of early childhood and after-school programs in the nation. Now, by adopting standards that will help our kids make better food and activity choices, we strive to be the healthiest.”

The YMCA of Delaware serves approximately 1,100 children in after-school programs statewide. All early childhood and after-school programs are implementing the HEPA standards, which include establishing a minimum of expected physical activity for children of different ages enrolled in Y programs; defining food and beverage offerings, including designating water as the primary beverage during snack times, and offering fruits and vegetables as snack options; limiting the amount of screen time with TV, video games, and computers; encouraging breastfeeding of infants in the Y’s care; and committing Ys to conducting parent education to encourage healthy behaviors at home.

Precor designs and builds premium fitness equipment for effective workouts that feel smooth and natural. Visit precor.com for more information.

The YMCA of Delaware is Delaware’s largest nonprofit organization committed to strengthening the citizens of Delaware through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Visit www.ymcade.org for more information.

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