Building Healthy Communities

Reducing Health Disparities in Elementary Schools

Building Healthy Communities is a school-based program focused on addressing the social determinants of health that have contributed to wide disparities in many communities across Michigan.

Health Impact

Since 2009 the statewide program has reached:

Schools

Teachers

Students & Families

Hear what children, teachers, school leaders and parents have to say about Building Healthy Communities!

“I have been completely blown away at how enthusiastic my kids have been about eating healthier and getting exercise.”

—Parent

“The Building Healthy Communities Program inspired staff and students to become healthier! We began drinking more water and having fruit and veggie snacks rather than sugary drinks and unhealthy snacks. Students were also given opportunity to try fruit and veggies they had not tried before and they realized they liked them and eat them now!”

—Principal

“Building Healthy Communities has become a huge part of our daily lives in the classroom. Students love the nutrition lessons as they get kids talking and thinking about healthy good choices.”

—Classroom Teacher

“Before our physical education equipment was dated and limited. Now there is plenty of equipment to keep all students in classes engaged increasing the time students are active and their outlook on physical education.”

—PE Teacher

“I think that Building Healthy Communities has helped our school because it helps the school be active. I think the Healthy Kids Club is good because you eat healthy snacks and exercise. It’s been a big help for the school.”

—Fifth Grade Student

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Building Healthy Communities

Building Healthy Communities

Building Healthy Communities: Reducing Health Disparities in Elementary Schools

"Yogurt parfaits can be great fuel for your body and brain. Here is a recipe to prepare when craving a naturally sweet treat! Slice strawberries and bananas. In a small cup or dish, layer fruit with yogurt and granola.Tips: Try different fruits such as peaches, apples, oranges, raspberries - any of your favorites will do! Use Greek yogurt to add an extra boost of protein. Mix up the yogurt flavor (try to find yogurt with fruit listed before sugar on the ingredient list). #buildinghealthycommunities#sanfordhealth #yogurtparfait" fit.sanfordhealth.org/blog/healthy-cooking-banana-berry-yogurt-parfait-article?utm_medium=email&_... ... See MoreSee Less
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Way to go Clintondale Community Schools! ... See MoreSee Less
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Here are some examples of seasonal produce for the month of May! Vegetables: Artichokes, arugula, avocado, asparagus, beets, bell peppers, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celeriac, celery, collard greens, cucumber, kale, leeks, parsnips, onions, peas, potatoes, spinach, tomatoes, and zucchini. Fruits: Apples, apricots, blackberries, blueberries, cantaloupe, cherries, grapefruit, lemon, lime, mango, oranges, nectarines, peaches, plums, raspberries, strawberries. #seasonalproduce #buildinghealthycommunities ... See MoreSee Less
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Jelly and jam may look similar, but the jam is made from whole fruit, and hence it is chunky. Jelly is made from fruit juice. #jelly #jam #buildinghealthycommunities #BHC ... See MoreSee Less
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"National Teacher Day provides an opportunity to recognize and show appreciation for the enormous impact that this nation's teachers have made and continue to make on its youth.#nationalteacherday #buildinghealthycommunities #BHC" ... See MoreSee Less
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