Urge Congress to Pass the Reducing Obesity in Youth Act

Background: One in three American children and teens has overweight or obesity, placing them at increased risk for serious conditions like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. The Reducing Obesity in Youth Act (ROYA) addresses childhood obesity through evidence-based, early-intervention strategies.

ROYA would make a meaningful difference by:

– Creating a five-year competitive grant program for local organizations to promote healthy eating and physical activity in early care and education settings.

– Building healthy habits into existing state early childhood programs by supporting training, technical assistance, and resources for partners working directly with young children.

– Strengthening monitoring and accountability by allowing the CDC to partner with universities, nonprofits, and other experts to track each state’s progress in preventing childhood obesity.

The goals of the Reducing Obesity in Youth Act (ROYA) align with the purpose behind OAC’s Thrive Together Youth and Families Program. Thrive Together provides families with evidence-based education, mental-health resources, and peer support to help them navigate weight and health with confidence and compassion.

Take Action Now: Use OAC’s advocacy tool below to urge your members of Congress to support the Reducing Obesity in Youth Act (ROYA).

It’s Easy to Advocate! Use our automated message generator below to get started. You’ll find a template letter, and we encourage you to personalize it by adding your own story and thoughts before sending.