Rockefeller, Manchin, Rahall Announce Funding That Will Help Prevent Chronic Disease in West Virginia
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators Jay Rockefeller and Joe Manchin, along with Congressman Nick Rahall (all D – WV), today announced that the West Virginia Bureau for Public Health is receiving $1,883,603 from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to help prevent chronic diseases. The funding will help approximately 1.8 million people in West Virginia, including a rural population of 800,000.
In July, Rockefeller wrote a letter of support for the West Virginia Bureau for Public Health’s application for the Community Transformation Grant.
“West Virginians are impacted by a number of chronic conditions, many of which are preventable or manageable given the proper education and support,” said Rockefeller. “I am very pleased that the West Virginia Bureau for Public Health has taken this initiative to transform our communities for the better. Not only will our population be healthier, but our economy will also benefit by reducing health problems associated with these chronic conditions.”
“The best way to keep West Virginians healthy is through preventive care, early detection of chronic conditions, and quality treatment. These funds will help ensure that West Virginians get the care they need, which will allow them to remain healthy and productive members of our workforce.”
“The road to a long, strong, and healthy life begins in our childhood years with prevention and wellness efforts,” said Rahall. “Learning good eating habits, getting regular exercise, and check-ups with health professionals can turn the tables on chronic illness.”
Background
In West Virginia, grant money will fund work focused on expanding efforts in tobacco-free living, active living and healthy eating, quality clinical and other preventive services, healthy and safe physical environments, and social and emotional wellness.
The Community Transformation Grants are part of a broader effort to address the health and well-being of our communities through initiatives such as the President’s Childhood Obesity Task Force, the First Lady’s Let’s Move! campaign and HHS’ Communities Putting Prevention to Work program.
To learn more about the Community Transformation Grant program, including a complete list of the 61 funded states and communities and the work being done by each grantee, visit www.cdc.gov/communitytransformation
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