A vibrant community that supports healthy lifestyles for all.
The Healthy Pontiac, We Can! coalition (HP, WC!) began in 2011, through a planning grant from the Michigan Department of Community Health’s Building Health Communities program.
Purpose
HP, WC! strives to bring health-related initiatives to improve the health and quality of life for Pontiac residents. The three focus areas include: - Healthy eating
- Physical activity
- Tobacco-Free living
Activities
The HP, WC! completed a comprehensive assessment of factors that influence health-related behaviors in Pontiac. The coalition developed a 3-year Strategic Action Plan to address some of the most pressing health issues facing Pontiac residents. The coalition has sought grant funding to implement these initiatives.
Partners
A diverse coalition includes leaders in primary and preventive health care, mental health, human service agencies, education, the religious community, and governmental agencies in addition to local residents. New partners are always welcome!
2012 Priority Initiatives
- Increase physical activity
“Catch Ya at Wisner” - A campaign to encourage residents to walk at Wisner. Wisner stadium is a free and safe place for residents to walk and families to play
- Increase fruit and vegetable intake
Start a weekly produce market providing affordable fresh fruits and vegetables.
Promote gardening through free seedlings, gardening supplies, and educational programs.
The 2012 HP, WC! projects were supported in part with funding and technical assistance from the MI Healthy Communities Initiative of the Michigan Department of Community Health, including the Building Healthy Communities program and the Local Advisory Group Project.