Childhood Obesity Program Area

RWJF is committed to tackling one of the most urgent threats to the health of our children and families—childhood obesity. Our goal is to reverse the childhood obesity epidemic by 2015.

Broken Kitchen Fryers Put New York School District on the Road to Health

December 7, 2011 | Story

These days, students can choose from a healthy lunch menu that tastes great and physical education options that include high-energy dance classes.

The Hunger Action Network Brings Vegetables to Thousands of Plates

May 23, 2011 | Program Result Report

The Hunger Action Network increased access to healthy, affordable food among low-income residents in selected neighborhoods in New York City and Schenectady, N.Y.

Reducing Childhood Obesity Through Policy Change

March 1, 2010 | Journal Article

In this commentary, Frieden provides an action framework for preventing childhood obesity.

Healthier Harlem Workbook for Women Takes Aim at Obesity

February 1, 2007 | Program Result Report

Erica G. Phillips-Caesar and a team of researchers conducted focus groups to find out what got in the way of eating healthy foods and increasing physical activity.

Changes in Energy Content of Lunchtime Purchases from Fast Food Restaurants After Introduction of Calorie Labelling

July 26, 2011 | Journal Article

This article used the implementation of calorie labeling in fast food restaurants to show that while calorie labeling was associated with a reduction in calories purchased at some major chains, overall, the average number of calories purchased did not change in fast food restaurants.

Consumer Awareness of Fast-Food Calorie Information in New York City After Implementation of a Menu Labeling Regulation

December 1, 2010 | Journal Article

A study of consumer awareness of calorie information in New York City fast-food chains found that prominently posting calorie information in restaurants increases the number of people who report seeing the information and using it in their food choices.

Buffalo Residents Work to Increase Access to Healthy Food, Exercise

September 7, 2011 | Story

Winning Strategies in the Fight Against Childhood Obesity.

Calorie Labeling and Food Choices

October 6, 2009 | Journal Article

This study examined the influence of menu calorie labels on fast food choices in the wake of New York City's labeling mandate.

Buffalo: Engaging Cafeteria Staff in Food & Fun

January 27, 2009 | Program Result Report

Students ages 11 to 13 participated in a variety of experiential healthy eating activities, including a weekly salad bar in the school cafeteria, Food & Fun after-school workshops and special projects.

Communities Creating Healthy Environments: Improving Access to Healthy Foods and Safe Places to Play in Communities of Color

National Program

To build state and national momentum to reverse the epidemic of childhood obesity through strategic investment in those communities most affected.