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

Our planet is an amazing place, but it needs our help to thrive! That’s why each year on April 22, more than a billion people celebrate Earth Day to protect the planet from things like pollution and deforestation. By taking part in activities like picking up litter and planting trees, we’re making our world a happier, healthier place to live. #EarthDay #BuildingHealthyCommunities #BHC ... See MoreSee Less
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National Garden Month is the right time to get outside and enjoy Mother Nature. Gardens are critical habitats for pollinators like bees, bats, birds, beetles, butterflies, and other animals. Kids enjoy gardening too! Get children involved by planting a sunflower hideout or designating a garden bed that they get to plant and tend to themselves throughout the season. Other fun activities include experimenting with kitchen scrap gardening or going on a garden scavenger hunt. Kids may also enjoy a field trip to an arboretum or botanical garden! Check out BHC’s parent tip sheet on the Health Benefits of Gardening! ... See MoreSee Less
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2024 School Wellness Award – Application Window OpenThe application window for the 2024 School Wellness Award is now open! All Michigan K-12 public and non-public school buildings are eligible to apply. The deadline to submit online applications is midnight (EST) on May 22, 2024. New this year is automated scoring, so school buildings receive their award level immediately upon submission of their application. The application, along with more information about the award, can be found at swa.mihealthtools.org. ... See MoreSee Less
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Don't miss out on some of the greatest opportunities for physical activity daily habits and chores that require physical movement, such as cooking, grocery shopping, doing yard work, or even fidgeting - the more you do throughout the day, the healthier you�#buildinghealthycommunitieso#BHCities #BHC ... See MoreSee Less
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Breakfast is an important meal. Kids who eat breakfast do better in school because they are better behaved and perform better, the American Dietetic Association explains. They also have an easier time maintaining a healthy weight. Some parents may struggle with getting their kids to eat in the morning, but breakfast can be quick and painless. Some simple yet nutritious breakfast options include whole-grain cereal and low-fat milk, a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, or whole-grain toaster waffles with fresh fruit. #buildinghealthycommunities #BHC #breakfast ... See MoreSee Less
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