Helping Build Healthy Communities
American Planning Association
Plan4Health Boston
Boston, MA
Targeted location(s): Cities of Cambridge, Somerville, Medford, Malden, Everett, Melrose,
and Wakefield
The Inner Core Community Health Coalition (Massachusetts) integrates seven existing municipal coalitions to address unhealthy diets within Boston’s Inner Core region by increasing access to healthy food. The coalitions These existing coalitions are part of a statewide movement to create healthier communities and include members of Mass in Motion and Shape Up Somerville. These groups focus on creating healthier communities through healthy eating and active living initiatives. Through Plan4Health, the coalition has focused on improving healthy retail through the following strategies:
- Established a membership business association for convenience stores known as the Greater Boston Association of Corner Stores. The aim of this association is to help convenience store owners strengthen their business and increase their positive impact on their communities.
- Worked to partner with supermarkets and grocery stores to promote healthier options through changes to the store environment.
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