U.S. Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers (KY-05) announced that the House of Representatives recently approved federal funding to continue an important health demonstration in Martin County at the Roy F. Collier Community Center. Through Rogers’ efforts, the FY 2010 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Bill includes $250,000 to continue this important outreach to battle obesity, diabetes, and weight-related health issues.

“The epidemic of obesity and weight-related diseases have adversely affected southern and eastern Kentucky,” said Rogers. “It is high time we get moving and make smart dietary decisions. Better foods and physical fitness information and coordination will go a long way toward lowering the cost of medical bills and improving the quality of life for families in our region. Morehead State University’s Martin County demonstration continues to provide strategic health resources and will go a long way toward preventing disease and encourage active lifestyles for children and adults.”

Morehead State University (MSU) will use the funds to continue the “Martin County on the Move” health outreach demonstration program initiated in 2008. This targeted and comprehensive project works with community leaders, schools and businesses to draw attention to healthy lifestyle choices and combat the region’s high rate of diabetes, obesity, and heart disease. The funds will be used for program development, supplies, health information resources, physician and professional support, and promotional/awareness efforts. To date, Rogers has secured $780,000 in funding for this important initiative.

This legislation favorably passed out of the House of Representatives on July 24, 2009 and awaits Senate consideration this summer. Rogers works to obtain federal funding for projects across southern and eastern Kentucky in his role as a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee.