Louisville Urban League launching new program to combat childhood obesity in west end

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- The Louisville Urban League will use more than $1 million to help tackle childhood obesity in the city's west end.

The nonprofit said Kentucky ranks third in the nation for childhood obesity. Obesity also impacts poorer communities at a higher rate.

LUL was awarded a grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to launch a program called "A Healthy Path Forward." Through it, six community "innovators" will get $200,000 each to come up with solutions for kids in west Louisville.

The best solutions will also be eligible for additional grant money later on.

"This grant represents a powerful opportunity to tackle one of the most pressing health challenges facing our city, childhood obesity," Lyndon Pryor, Louisville Urban League CEO, said during a news conference Wednesday.

According to LUL, immediate health implications for obese youth are "substantial." Risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, including high cholesterol and high blood pressure. There can also be musculoskeletal issues and psychosocial challenges.

The process is still in the very early stages. LUL said it will involve west end residents and Black-led community organizations along the way.

Community meetings will be held, starting later this month. The first will be held Monday, June 16 from 2-3:30 p.m. and from 5:30-7 p.m. at the Louisville Urban League, 1535 West Broadway.

To learn more about the initiative, click here.

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