When the Stockbridge Area Wellness Coalition (SAWC) initiated its discussions, there were already several community health initiatives underway which supported the Coalition’s mission. They include the Open Air Market, the Master Trail Plan for the Village, the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, and the Rails-To-Trails Plan, all supporting healthy foods and personal fitness/recreation for Stockbridge residents and families. The Coalition chose to build upon these community health initiatives for the future.
The coalition identified four priority healthy areas:
- Move More interventions that address the need for weight management, prevention and control of high blood pressure and other conditions.
- Eat Better interventions will provide nutrition and dietary support for weigh, high blood pressure and high cholesterol management.
- Avoid unhealthy substances interventions that provide a foundation on which to address binge drinking.
- Connect with other interventions will reinforce a community culture in which health and wellbeing are sought and valued.
The year eight plan received 5HF approval for implementation and funding in August, 2019. This plan once again shows off how Stockbridge comes together to accomplish many things. The Plan identifies ten interventions. Included with the plan is funding for SRSLY Stockbridge, Tide Me Over, Be Fit, trail maintenance, cooking classes and more.