S.E.R.R.F.
To address the growing concern of childhood obesity, St. Elizabeth Community Hospital co-sponsored and supported the Safe Education & Recreation for Rural Families (S.E.R.R.F.) program. Together, S.E.R.R.F. and St. E's designed a program that focuses on educating students, between the ages of 8 and 11 on the benefits of adopting healthy lifestyles. One that combines good nutritional habits with exercise. A test is given to each student to determine their attitude, behavior and knowledge regarding nutrition and physical activity.
The pilot program started February 2005 and concluded May 19, 2005. Twenty-one students from S.E.R.R.F. volunteered for this project and ranged in ages 8 to 11, grades, 4, 5, and 6. According to measurements of the children’s body mass index (BMI) the average child in the program fell into the overweight category.
With such overwhelming success, today, the S.E.R.R.F. program exists in all schools throughout Tehama County and remains one of the most successful partnerships and programs in the area.
