All HCPH offices will be closed on December 12, 2024 from 11am-1pm.
REACH
Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH) is a CDC-funded program to reduce racial and ethnic health disparities or gaps in Hamilton County. This program empowers us to design and implement culturally appropriate strategies that reflect the unique needs of their populations. By employing proven methods, REACH aims to improve health outcomes, prevent chronic diseases, and close the gaps in health equity. Together, we can build healthier communities for everyone.
Early Care and Education (ECE)
As part of the REACH program, Hamilton County Public Health is focusing on Early Care and Education through the WeTHRIVE! Child Care Initiative. The WeTHRIVE! Child Care Initiative works with licensed child care centers and in-home child care providers in Hamilton County to identify and implement strategies related to nutrition, physical activity, farm to early care and education, oral health, screen time, and breastfeeding/infant feeding. The overarching goal of the Initiative is to create lasting systems and policy level changes in this setting to promote positive health outcomes. To join the WeTHRIVE! Child Care initiative or learn more, fill out our interest form or contact Katherine Togher at Katherine.togher@hamilton-co.org.
Fruit and Vegetable Voucher Incentive and Produce Prescription (PRx) Programs
Within the Nutrition strategy of REACH, Hamilton County Public Health is working towards expanding fruit and vegetable voucher incentive and produce prescription programs in Hamilton County. With partner, Produce Perks Midwest, Hamilton County Public Health is working to expand these programs and increase access and awareness within communities. The hope is that all residents, regardless of their income or physical abilities, will be able to access fresh, nutritious, and affordable fruits and vegetables.
Nutrition Guidelines
What are culturally preferred foods and why are they important?
All people should be able to reach their full health potential. However, health gaps exist among racial and ethnic minority groups.
“Culturally preferred foods” describes safe and nutritious foods that meet diverse tastes and needs of customers based on their cultural identity. For example, people who identify with Muslim or Jewish religious traditions may want foods that are halal or kosher, respectively.
Offering affordable, culturally preferred food options that are in line with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans allows customers to choose foods that meet their needs. Serving culturally preferred food options expands opportunities for customers to select familiar and healthier foods they like. Improved diet quality may positively impact customers’ health. In addition, other customers may learn about and enjoy different cuisines.
Beyond cultural preferences, customers choose foods for a variety of reasons, including:
- Price, convenience, and taste.
- Agricultural growing techniques, such as organic farming.
- Sourcing of products, such as local or regional foods.
- Food preparation methods, including the use of specific ingredients.
- New foods or cuisines.
- Foods that help prevent or manage chronic health conditions.
- Food allergies or intolerances.
Make every movement count with these active transportation tips.
Active transportation is human-powered transportation that engages people in healthy physical activity while they travel from place to place. People walking, bicycling, using strollers, wheelchairs/mobility devices, skateboarding and rollerblading are engaged in active transportation. Kids can get involved by taking Safe Routes to School (SRTS)! The Safe Routes to School program provides resources, technical assistance and project funding to encourage and enable students in grades K-12 to walk or ride their bike to school. Â
Want to learn more about wellness initiatives in your neighborhood? Check out our community-focused programs. The WeTHRIVE!â„ Â initiative brings public health together with communities, schools, and childcare providers, with the goal of making changes related to health, safety, and well-being that will last for generations to come.
