Well Play Hard promotes increased physical activity and targeted dietary practices. Well Play Hard Initiative was born out of a concern for the increasing prevalence of overweight among children in New York State. Among both preschool aged children and second and fifth graders, there are approximately twice as many overweight children as might be expected in the population. Research has shown that overweight children are twice as likely to become overweight adults. Overweight has been found to be a significant risk factor for heart disease.
Heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death in Erie County.
Well Play Hard Program has a workgroup currently consisting of 42 individuals representing 32 community organizations. Workgroup membership is open to everyone and involvement is always welcome.