MHP Hosts Start Somewhere Walk

On Friday, Oct. 7, MHP joined the state of Iowa and many organizations throughout Oskaloosa in the Start Somewhere Walk.

The walk was part of Governor Terry Brandstad's plan to make Iowa the healthiest state by 2016. Iowa ranks as the 19th healthiest state in the nation – and we are the 20th most obese state! A 2008 Community Health Status Report showed 20.5% of Mahaska County residents are obese? Mahaska County also ranks 85th of 99 Iowa counties in childhood obesity.

There is something we can do! As part of the Iowa Healthiest State Initiative, 10 Iowa counties will be designated as Blue Zone communities. In order for Mahaska County to have a chance, we need your vote!

Visit www.bluezonesproject.com/citizens/signup to vote. The site is sometimes overwhelmed with visitors so check back often. Or, you can text BZP to 772937 (standard text messaging rates apply).

For more information about the Mahaska County BlueZone project, contact United Way of Mahaska County at 673-6043.