Building Healthy Communities

The Building Healthy Communities program creates policy, system, and environment changes that support physical activity and healthy eating. The program is funded by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and aims to reduce cardiovascular disease, obesity, and other chronic conditions. Washtenaw County Health Department works with partners and residents to implement local projects where they are most needed and can be most effective.

Past Projects

Past projects have helped launch:

  • Local farmers markets in Ypsilanti and Chelsea
  • Healthy food assistance programs
  • Non-motorized planning initiatives
  • Walking and biking trails
  • The Washtenaw County Food Policy Council and Prescription for Health
Large flowers, family walking around lake, and red and yellow bell peppers

2018 Funded Partners

  • Charter Township of Ypsilanti Recreation Department (in partnership with Habitat for Humanity of Huron Valley and New West Willow Neighborhood Association)
  • Chelsea Senior Citizens Activities Center
  • Eastern Michigan University (in partnership with Parkridge Community Center and Ypsilanti Housing Commission)
  • Ecology Center
  • Food Gatherers
  • Growing Hope (in partnership with Cultivate Coffee and Taphouse and Taste the Local Difference)
  • IDEA Buenos Vecinos
  • Jewish Family Services of Washtenaw County (in partnership with Ypsilanti Meals on Wheels)
  • Livingston County Health Department
  • Northfield Human Services (in partnership with Whitmore Lake Health Equity Leadership Team)
  • Saline Farmers Market (in partnership with Saline Area Senior Center)
  • Saline Parks and Recreation
  • St. Joseph Mercy Ann Arbor
  • Washtenaw County Food Policy Council
  • Whitmore Lake Public Schools (in partnership with Whitmore Lake Health Equity Leadership Team)