JAMAICA, NY- Jamaica Hospital Medical Center has been chosen as one of only 10 hospitals in the nation to serve as a pilot site for Sodexho’s innovative new childhood obesity program.

Sodexho, a leading food and facilities management service with 1,400 hospital accounts nationwide, has designed this holistic Pediatric Weight Management Program to introduce young people and their families to new activities that promote healthy lifestyles. Created to combat childhood obesity, the Pediatric Weight Management Program concentrates on healthy living rather than strictly weight loss.

Sixteen percent of children ages 6-11 face issues of obesity due to their sedentary lifestyles, accessibility to high caloric foods, and bombardment of advertisements for unhealthy food choices. This program was uniquely designed to serve as a support system rather than a feared medical visit to those children suffering from obesity. Children attend the program to have a fun and memorable experience while learning about healthy living at the same time. They participate in group discussions and activities and interact with other children at the program, rather than being one-on-one with the dietitian. Parents are asked to join their children during the program for support and to learn about and administer healthy living lessons at their homes as well.

This 11-week outpatient program is being implemented at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center by Cindy Pierce and Nora Lynam, Registered Dietitians. It is being targeted at children ages 7-12 that have been identified by their physicians as overweight or obese. Each week a different topic is presented; ranging from basic nutrition to portion control and eating out. In addition to learning this information, children participate in physical activity games, dancing and other fun activities. A partnership with the Jamaica YMCA has also been formed entitling all participants to a YMCA membership during the program.

Jamaica Hospital continues to show its dedication and involvement in the community by promoting health and wellness. They will be donating gifts to the participants to encourage physical activity, such as hula hoops, jump ropes and pedometers.