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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Jan. 28, 2025
CONTACT:
Office of Communications
City of Savannah Recognized Nationally for Innovative Youth Health Program
SAVANNAH – The City of Savannah was awarded second place, and $50,000, in the medium city category of the 2025 Childhood Obesity Prevention and Environmental Health Sustainability Awards for the Mayor on the Move: Healthy Savannah Kids Club initiative.
The American Beverage Foundation for a Healthy America (ABFHA) and the U.S. Conference of Mayors (USCM) presented the award during the 93rd Winter Meeting of the USCM in Washington, D.C.
The Childhood Obesity Prevention & Environmental Health & Sustainability Awards celebrate innovative city-led programs that foster healthier communities and promote sustainability. Savannah joins eight other cities — Akron, Ohio; Bridgeport, Conn.; Chapel Hill, N.C.; Fort Wayne, Ind.; Issaquah, Wash.; Lima, Ohio; New Orleans, La.; and Portland, Ore. — as recipients of a combined $745,000 in grants supporting transformative local initiatives.
"This national recognition affirms our commitment to building a healthier, stronger Savannah for all," Mayor Van R. Johnson, II said. "Our program empowers middle school students and their families to embrace well-rounded, healthier lifestyles. By focusing on social, emotional, physical, intellectual, environmental, spiritual, and financial well-being, we invest in a brighter, more sustainable future for our community."
The Healthy Savannah Kids Club program utilizes a passport-based system, encouraging participants to engage in diverse health-focused activities. Families and students earn stamps for completed activities across seven health domains. The program offers engaging incentives, including Mayor-hosted block parties, family walks, and sports events, creating dynamic community connections and wellness opportunities.
"Mayors know their cities best,” Kevin Keane, president and CEO of American Beverage and president of the ABFHA board of directors said. “That's why America's beverage companies are proud to partner with the U.S. Conference of Mayors to help drive community-based solutions that directly address today's most pressing challenges. We congratulate the winning mayors and their cities for their outstanding efforts to improve the communities we call home."
Since 2012, the Childhood Obesity Prevention & Environmental Health & Sustainability Awards have distributed more than $7 million to 84 cities across the United States. The program demonstrates the power of public-private partnerships in driving local innovation and advancing health and sustainability.
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About the United States Conference of Mayors
The U.S. Conference of Mayors (USCM) is the official nonpartisan organization of cities with populations of 30,000 or more. Representing more than 1,400 cities nationwide, the USCM provides a platform for mayors to address critical national issues and foster effective urban governance. Follow USCM on X, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, and Medium.
About American Beverage
American Beverage (AB) represents America's non-alcoholic beverage industry, encompassing hundreds of beverage producers, distributors, and related companies. AB members bring a wide array of beverages to market, including soft drinks, bottled water, juices, energy drinks, and teas. To learn more, visit americanbeverage.org.
About the American Beverage Foundation for a Healthy America
The American Beverage Foundation for a Healthy America (ABFHA) promotes health and wellness nationwide. Since its founding, ABFHA has provided millions of dollars in grants to organizations and cities driving positive change. Visit beveragefoundation.org for more information.