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Washington, D.C. - U.S. Congressman Kevin Brady (R-The Woodlands), Texas Children’s Hospital, the City of Houston, Houston Parks and Recreation Department (HPARD) and the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas (METRO) are taking the initiative to defeat childhood obesity in the Greater Houston area.
The initiative, unveiled at a press conference today at Texas Children’s Hospital is one part of Texas Children’s comprehensive strategy designed to fight childhood obesity.
Congressman Brady secured over $334,000 in federal funding for the KidFIT! program debuting today. The federal funds will underwrite the technology physicians need to identify children for treatment and also track their progress.
“After learning that almost 40% of our region’s children are overweight or obese and at a higher risk of developing, Type II diabetes or heart disease, I wanted to do all I could to help combat childhood obesity.
“Through this program, parents and children will have one more way to help their kids get fit and stay fit. Healthy children are likely to become healthy adults and that means a healthier America, lower health care costs, and preventing disease,” said Brady.
Under the new KidFIT! program physicians can refer patients to three Houston Park sites free of charge. Other sites will offer free youth sports activities.
METRO will offer a 60 percent discount on “Go-Cards” to children participating in the KidFIT! programs. Information about METRO Go-Cards can be obtained at any METRO RideStore, www.ridemetro.org or by calling (713) 635-4000.
On Saturday, October 2, Texas Children’s, HPARD and METRO will host an official kick-off event at Hermann Park. |
