The Copper Country Healthy Kids, Healthy Communities partnership in Houghton County built support among residents and elected officials for a Complete Streets ordinance and other active transportation projects by focusing on livability, economic development, health, safety and future funding opportunities from the Michigan Department of Transportation.
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In addition, the harsh winter climate poses a barrier to physical activity among area residents. The challenge is even greater for Houghton County’s families of lesser means, who can’t afford gym memberships or costly sports equipment. As is common in rural areas, sidewalks, bike paths and recreational facilities are in short supply. And the geographic isolation means it’s more costly for stores to order and stock produce, which limits residents’ access to affordable fresh foods. For many in Houghton, a predominantly White county of 36,000, a healthy lifestyle is a daily struggle.
However, things are looking up. The Western Upper Peninsula Health Department is leading a movement to revitalize the community’s health and reverse obesity rates. The Copper Country Healthy Kids, Healthy Communities (HKHC) partnership leveraged their HKHC grant to increase the supply of affordable, nutritious foods and support physical activity with a focus on the county’s 7,000 children, particularly those from lower-income families.
By leveraging state and local funds, the HKHC partnership has made significant progress in four years:
“These successes wouldn’t have happened without our many amazing partners,” explained project director Terry Frankovich. “Local government agencies, schools, community organizations and residents have worked together for these victories.”
As for the impact of the HKHC work, Project Coordinator Ray Sharp, added “The culture of the region is changing. Bike ridership is growing. Active transportation is becoming a high priority. Large institutions are seeking regional, healthy produce for their cafeterias. Residents are gardening with their neighbors. It’s an exciting shift to see and one that will continue on for the foreseeable future.”
For more information, view a short film about their work.