Northwest Metro Healthy Student Partnership receives public health award

BLOOMINGTON, Minn. – The Anoka County Board of Commissioners has recognized an initiative to improve health in Anoka County schools. At its regular April board meeting, County Commissioners presented the Public Health Recognition award to the Northwest Metro Healthy Student Partnership. The program, which is funded by a two year grant from the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation, provides health and wellness services freeof charge for students in all Anoka County high schools.

The program offers services in the school and the community to help students be in their best physical, emotional and social health. With their parent’s permission, confidential services help students:

• Achieve and maintain healthy weight, blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar
• Be drug and alcohol free
• Reduce and manage stress
• Have safe and secure housing

According to County Health rankings, Anoka County has higher rates of smoking, obesity, physical inactivity and other factors that are associated with chronic illnesses such as heart disease and cancer compared to state averages.

The Healthy Student Partnership includes the Anoka County-Hennepin school district, the Northwest Metro Alliance (a partnership between Allina Health and HealthPartners) and community partners including the YMCA.