North Dakota Governor Jack Dalrymple pledged his support to the Fuel Up to Play 60 program, an in-school nutrition and physical activity program launched by National Dairy Council and NFL, in collaboration with the USDA, to combat childhood obesity. The Governor joined education officials, Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring, and North Dakota dairy farmers and industry representatives on April 19 to sign the symbolic pledge.
The Fuel Up to Play 60 program is a direct response to dairy farmers’ concerns that many children in North Dakota are overweight and undernourished.
“As dairy farmers, we have always cared about legacy and the importance of passing on a better future to the next generation,” said dairy farmer Jerry Messer of Richardton, North Dakota.
“To date, the dairy community has awarded more than $30,000 in funding to North Dakota schools to help jumpstart and champion school wellness efforts.”
Any school in North Dakota can enroll in the free program, thus becoming eligible to apply for funds to help increase awareness of and access to nutrient-rich foods and physical activity opportunities for students.
As part of Fuel Up to Play 60, schools can receive a free Quick Start Resources kit with planning tools and in-school collateral materials to help them implement healthy eating and physical fitness plans.
The program, now in its second year, also encourages youth to consume nutrient-rich foods (low-fat and fat-free dairy, fruits, vegetables and whole grains) and achieve at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day. PD
—From Midwest Dairy Association news release
