In response to data showing that 55 percent of New Jersey residents are obese or overweight, along with evidence of the consequences of this widespread obesity, the Borough and the Township recently endorsed The New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute’s (NJHCQI) “Mayors Wellness Campaign.”

The Mayors Wellness Campaign is described as “a toolbox to help local mayors implement wellness programs in their communities.” It includes self-assessment tools, suggestions for program evaluation, “and a variety of best practice programs” mayors may want to implement.

Founded in 1997 and partially funded by a grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, the NJHCQI represents what is described as an effort to bring together “all key stakeholders to make real and measurable improvements to our state’s health care system.” Its purpose is to “undertake objectives that will ensure that safety, quality, accountability, and cost containment are all closely linked to the delivery of health care services in New Jersey.”

Borough Council approved the Mayors Wellness Campaign at its April 24 meeting. Following a request from Princeton Health Officer David Henry, Township Committee made its endorsement at its June 25 meeting. “I am writing to ask the Township Committee and mayor to adopt a Mayors Wellness Campaign,” said Mr. Henry in his letter. “This campaign encourages and supports wellness and healthy living in the community. Mayor Moore and the Borough Council has passed the Mayors Wellness Campaign as well. In the spirit of unity, the Health Commission and mayor thought it would be great to combine our efforts.”

“Across New Jersey, communities are facing a rise in health care costs,” said the Township’s resolution. “Physical activity levels have been decreasing and obesity rates increasing, and … local leaders are looking for ways to promote active living, healthy eating, and overall wellness in their communities.”

“We see this effort as an ongoing process of improving and enhancing the information and programs New Jersey communities can provide their citizens to improve their health and health care,” said the Institute in announcing the Mayors Wellness Campaign. “We encourage the residents of Princeton [Township and Borough] to participate in Mayors Wellness Campaign activities to promote exercise, eating properly, and living healthier and better lives,” said the Princeton Mayors’ resolutions.

Superintendent of schools Judy Wilson reported that her office has not been approached about participating in the MWC.

For more information on The New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute, visit www.njhcqi.org.