Quincy L Vidrine, M. Ed, CHC Family and Consumer Sciences Regional Coordinator – Northeast Region Healthy Communities Coalitions have been established and are steadily popping up all over parishes in Northeast Louisiana. These coalitions are working to combat obesity and chronic disease by addressing the obstacles to healthy lifestyles in the Northeastern parishes. Fall is an excellent time of year to get involved – many of the coalitions have weekly, monthly, or annual meetings and many community events planned. The LSU AgCenter’s Northeast (NE) Region territory consists of twelve parishes:
• Catahoula • Richland
• Concordia • Union
• Tensas • Ouachita
• Madison • Franklin
• East Carroll • Caldwell
• West Carroll
• Morehouse
Each of the parishes in the NE Region has at least one active coalition working to improve the lives of the people in their communities by helping to implement policy, systems, and environmental changes. These changes result in communities/towns that are healthier places to live, work and play! The coalitions consist of local members of the community and community partners, along with a representative from the LSU AgCenter’s Extension team. The members of the community decide what issues are important to them and what initiatives should be tackled first. The coalitions discuss and plan out solutions for making healthy foods accessible and affordable for the residents in the community and work to improve physical activity and play opportunities that are safe and open to all people who live there.
Getting involved in a coalition is simple – anyone in the community can join and all input is of value. All you need to have is a willingness to help your community be a healthier, happier place and a positive attitude! For more information on Healthy Communities coalitions in your area, or to start a coalition in your community, contact the LSU AgCenter Extension Office in your parish. Visit our website Northeast (lsuagcenter.com), or call the regional office in Winnsboro at 318-435-2903 to connect with your Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) Agent.