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Small State, Big Impact

 

More than 400 Rhode Island officials, local celebrities, organizations and businesses are slated to take part in statewide event on March 12 to promote healthy living among students of all ages across the Ocean State.

Eat Healthy RI will see schools, daycare centers and after school programs host events such as cooking demonstrations, art projects, healthy snack parties and other activities that teach kids healthy habits. At least 10 mayors of Rhode Island cities and towns also are slated to take part, as well as local celebrities such as anchorwoman Barbara Morse Silva from NBC affiliate WJAR.

The event is the brainchild of author Joy Feldman, executive director of the nonprofit organization The Picture of Children’s Health, which educates children about the importance of making lifelong healthy lifestyle choices.

Last year, Feldman helped organize a statewide reading of her children’s book, Is Your Hair Made of Donuts?, a lighthearted tale that teaches children that they are what they eat. Mayors, government officials, teachers and other volunteers read the tome to more than 75,000 students at more than 200 schools across Rhode Island.

But Feldman is thinking bigger this year, predicting that more than 120,000 people will be involved in a variety of healthy eating-themed events across the state, including local businesses.

“Children rely on their parents and caregivers to provide proper nutrition and access to healthy activities,” Feldman says. “We are asking local businesses to encourage their employees — many parents of our school-aged children among them — to participate in Eat Healthy Rhode Island at whatever level they can – from reading in classrooms to taking an exercise break during the workday.”

The Picture of Children’s Health produced an online learning kit in both English and Spanish to help teachers and parents guide activities on March 12. In addition, healthy meals will be provided in selected locations and healthy snacks will be available at all schools that participate in the event.

Click here to learn more about Eat Healthy Rhode Island.