Health And Fitness

Today, Governor Kim Reynolds announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved a demonstration project submitted by Iowa Health and Human Services for the state’s own summer food pilot program. Healthy Kids Iowa is an alternative to the summer EBT program that serves Iowa children healthier foods at a lower cost by leveraging Iowa’s already-existing, successful network of summer feeding programs and community providers.

The American Red Cross will be sponsoring its next blood drive in Vinton on Thursday, June 5th, from 12-5:00 p.m. at the Vinton Skate Center.  Go to www,redcross.org/blood to sign up or call 800-red-cross. Please sign up!

You will find the May 2025 Words on Wellness newsletter below.This edition features:The Link between Sleep and ObesityRecipe for Mushroom QuinoaUpdate on Food AllergiesHandle with Care: Fruits and Vegetables Check out upcoming health and human sciences events on the calendar -- https://www.extension.iastate.edu/humansciences/events 

The Virginia Gay Hospital diabetes self-management education program in Vinton, Iowa has been awarded continued Recognition from the American Diabetes Association. The program was originally Recognized in February of 2022. This program offers high-quality education services to the patients it serves.The ADA Education Recognition effort, begun in the fall of 1986, is a voluntary process which assures that approved education programs have met the National Standards for Diabetes Self-Management Education Programs.

Date: May 5, 2025  Time: 1800 Location: In person and virtualJoin Zoom Meetinghttps://us05web.zoom.us/j/7095171854?pwd=Y2oAQ7dqObFiGwa6HGzLK1qarvIjAr.1&omn=81387153670Meeting ID: 709 517 1854Passcode: 39bTnvCall to Order*Introductions*This is a safe place to be open and vulnerable if you wish*Please refer emails/names of people who should be here to the SPC email*Updates from individuals and/or organizationsApproval of Minutes:Treasurer's Report:Subcommittee Reports Youth-Calli/HollyPlanning-Julie/Skye/JenElderlyAgriculture-GregSuicide Prevention/Awareness walk-GraceSupport GroupOld Business:BCSPC ScholarshipsVS had two recipients that split the $500 between them both.

By Robin OpsahlAny communication from schools on immunization requirements would have to include information and requirements for families seeking an exemption under a bill sent to the governor Tuesday.House File 299 was passed by the Senate 32-16. The bill requires all Iowa K-12 schools, as well as child care centers, community colleges, universities under the Iowa Board of Regents as well as private universities using the tuition grant program, to include information on exemptions when communicating with students and families about vaccine requirements.

Chalk the Town GreenMay is Mental Health Awareness Month and we're joining Iowa's Healthiest State Initiative campaign to Chalk the Town Green! Stop by the library anytime between 9am and 8pm on Thursday, May 1st and decorate our library sidewalks with green sidewalk chalk! All chalk will be provided.When?Thursday, May 1, 2025, 09:00 AMWhere?510 2

As we enter the month of May, we’re inviting you to not only roll up your sleeve—but to bring someone new along with you. Young donors, especially high school and college students, donate far less often—but they’re the future of our blood supply. You can help us inspire the next generation of lifesavers by encouraging a student you know to join you in donating this month! 📣 Why now?This is the perfect time for students to give back before the school year ends—and we’re offering some great incentives! Student Scholarships: Up to $500 for those who host a successful summer blood driveDonor of Distinction: Students who donate three times before graduation (or host a scholarship drive) receive an honor cord, certificate, and recognition for their generosity 🩸 Every donation saves up to three lives—and when you donate with LifeServe, it stays right here in your community.

77 scholarships now available; applications due May 31The Iowa Health Care Association (IHCA) Foundation is offering 77 scholarships to help individuals interested in pursuing or advancing their career in long-term care. Applications are open now through May 31 for current long-term care employees seeking to advance their health care or leadership skills, as well as high school seniors who are pursuing an education in health care.

LifeServe Blood Center is asking community members to show their support for local firefighters this May in conjunction with International Firefighters’ Day observed annually on May 4th. LifeServe Blood Center is partnering with local firefighters to host special mobile blood drives across Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Illinois April 23-May 2 as well as at our 14 Donor Centers Thursday, May 1-Saturday, May 3.