Congresswoman Fudge Proposes Targeted Nutrition Bill

Press Release

In keeping with her commitment to address the epidemic of childhood obesity, Congresswoman Maria L. Fudge (OH-11) will unveil plans to introduce Fit for L.I.F.E., a bill aimed at improving children's health in low-income, rural and Native American communities. These communities have been hardest hit by the childhood obesity epidemic. The announcement will come during her appearance on Saturday, September 4, 2010, at Healthy You at the Zoo.

Congresswoman Fudge will participate in the event, which is hosted by Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and the Children's Museum of Cleveland. The program is a day of fun and learning in recognition of Childhood Obesity Awareness Month.

Congresswoman Fudge will deliver remarks at approximately 1:45 pm.

In May, the U.S. House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed a resolution designating September 2010 as National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month. Congresswomen Marcia L. Fudge (OH-11) and Kay Granger (TX-12) introduced the measure.

"Since arriving in Congress, I've dedicated myself to helping kids live longer and healthier," said Congresswoman Fudge. Nearly one in three American children are already overweight or obese. A study conducted by University Hospitals in Cleveland found that the childhood obesity rate in Ohio is even higher, close to 36% for children 10 -17. "Unless we work to reverse this epidemic, these 23 million kids will be in danger of becoming the first generation in American history to have shorter life spans than their parents."

For more information about Healthy You at the Zoo, contact: Tia Trivison,University Hospitals/ Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, work: 216-767-8551, cell: 440-799-3489

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