Healthy Community

healthy community

In Massachusetts, two out of three adults and one in four children are either overweight or obese. Healthy eating and active living are more important than ever before. But it’s not enough to want to be healthy - our environment plays a major role in the decisions we make.

According to Active Living Research and the National Farmers Market Coalition:

  • People who live in areas with sidewalks are 47% more likely to be active for 30 minutes a day. [1]
  • The number of children who are active outdoors is 84% higher when school yards are kept open. [2]
  • People who live near trails are 50% more likely to meet physical activity guidelines. [3]
  • Public transit users take 30% more steps per day than people who rely on cars. [4]
  • Older adults engage in 3.5 times more physical activity in parks with walking loops. [5]
  • Proximity to farmers markets is associated with lower BMI, while density of fast-food and pizza venues is associated with higher BMI. [6]

Communities built with health at the center make it easier for residents to make the healthy choice. 

Mass in Motion

Mass in Motion is a statewide movement that promotes opportunities for healthy eating and active living in the places we live, learn, work, and play.

As of 2018, Mass in Motion is made up of 27 programs representing 60 cities and towns across the Commonwealth, including Weymouth. These programs work locally to make healthier choices easier for everyone by:

  • Increasing access to local fresh food through farmers markets, and working with food retailers to offer healthy food and drink options.
  • Building and expanding parks, playgrounds, and other public places to be active.
  • Creating safe neighborhoods with sidewalks, bike lanes, and Complete Streets, which make roads safe for all users.
Mass in Motion at Work in Weymouthhealthy wey

Healthy Meetings and Events

Meetings and events offer opportunities to provide healthy food and beverages, and options for physical activities to participants. In 2013, the Town of Weymouth adopted the Massachusetts Department of Public Health's Healthy Meeting and Event Guide. This guide includes suggested food and beverages for any meeting or event where refreshments are offered. Recommendations for activity breaks are also included.

Healthy Meeting Tips
  • Provide an opportunity for participants to inform you of dietary needs or restrictions before the event.
  • Meet with your caterer or food vendor to discuss options and how menu items can be modified for the event.
  • Emphasize fruits and vegetables, using seasonal and local food when possible.
  • Keep portion sizes in line with U.S. Dietary Guidelines for individual servings.
  • Limit the sodium content of meals to 480 mg and snacks to 200 mg or less, as suggested by the Massachusetts Nutrition Standards for State Agencies (EO 509).

Related Documents/Links