The deadline to register for the 2014 Faith and Health Summit has been extended until this Friday, October 3. More than 200 people have already reserved their space at this important event, but there’s still room for you! Click here to take advantage of this special … [Read more...] about 2014 Faith & Health Summit: Registration Deadline Extended
PHW Success Story – Paradise Outreach Ministry, Greenville
We at Paradise Outreach Ministry are making great strides in involving our congregation in healthy initiatives. It is a pleasure to announce that we just completed our 2nd Annual CPR and First Aid Training Class! As a member of the Health Ministry, we are in the process of … [Read more...] about PHW Success Story – Paradise Outreach Ministry, Greenville
2014 Faith & Health Summit: Calling All Volunteers
The NC Council of Churches’ 2014 Faith and Health Summit is now less than a month away, and we are delighted to have people of faith, public health professionals, faith and health experts, and other community members from all across the state joining us. The event will be held on … [Read more...] about 2014 Faith & Health Summit: Calling All Volunteers
American Eating Habits
A 12-year study conducted by the Harvard School of Public Health found that Americans improved their eating habits slightly over the years, but that was not the case for America’s poor. Harvard assigned individuals different scores based on their food choices, creating a healthy … [Read more...] about American Eating Habits
PHW Success Story – Savannah Missionary Baptist, Fayetteville
Savannah Missionary Baptist Church is committed to developing a holistic ministry. For the past six years our congregation has made a concerted effort to improve the health of our members and reach out to the community. We have declared our campus Tobacco Free and have posted … [Read more...] about PHW Success Story – Savannah Missionary Baptist, Fayetteville
NC’s Plan to Improve Health in Rural Communities
I had the pleasure of serving on the North Carolina Institute of Medicine’s (NCIOM) Task Force on Rural Health, which was charged with creating a roadmap for better health in rural parts of our state. This plan includes strategies that do not require additional funding to … [Read more...] about NC’s Plan to Improve Health in Rural Communities
2014 Faith & Health Summit – Register Now!
Please join the North Carolina Council of Churches at the 2014 Faith and Health Summit, which will be held on Friday, October 10, 2014 at Ardmore Baptist Church in Winston-Salem (501 Miller Street). Special thanks to Wake Forest University's Food, Faith and Religious Leadership … [Read more...] about 2014 Faith & Health Summit – Register Now!
How to Make a Diabetes Emergency Kit for Your Congregation
Do you have people in your congregation with type 2 diabetes? Have you considered creating an emergency kit especially for them? PHW liaison, Dr. Renee Lea-Currie of Philadelphia Seventh Day Adventist Church in Burlington, shared the information below with PHW staff to pass along … [Read more...] about How to Make a Diabetes Emergency Kit for Your Congregation
Food, Fairness and Faith
“How is this equal?!” I often articulate this simple phrase whenever I take a look at the world these days. Sometimes I mutter the sentence under my breath in disbelief, and sometimes I exclaim it with disgust or utter shock. The question of equality always surfaces whenever I … [Read more...] about Food, Fairness and Faith
PHW Welcomes Courtney Ward
Courtney Ward is a summer intern with the Alliance of Baptists, working with Pullen Memorial Baptist Church and lending her aid to the Partners in Health and Wholeness Initiative. Born and bred in Frederick, Maryland, Courtney received a Bachelor’s degree in History and a … [Read more...] about PHW Welcomes Courtney Ward
PHW Success Story – Mount Nebo Pentecostal Holiness, Ramseur
Mount Nebo Pentecostal Holiness Church in Ramseur, NC received a grant earlier this year from the Randolph Hospital Community Health Foundation to build a walking track, which has since been completed. Such efforts to increase access to opportunities for physical activity can … [Read more...] about PHW Success Story – Mount Nebo Pentecostal Holiness, Ramseur
Men’s Health Week and Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month
There’s lots to celebrate this month. Besides my birthday (smile), the month of June is when we observe Men’s Health Week and National Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month. These two issues, each important enough on their own, also overlap as men are encouraged to eat nutritious, … [Read more...] about Men’s Health Week and Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month
PHW Success Story – United Progressive Baptist, Winston-Salem
United Progressive Baptist Church has had many successes improving the health of the members of our congregation. During our Vacation Bible School, we were able to engage the youth of the church and community in physical activity. During Revival, we provided the pastors with … [Read more...] about PHW Success Story – United Progressive Baptist, Winston-Salem
Recording of Shared Use Agreement Webinar Now Available
If you were unable to join the March 28th webinar on Shared Use Agreements, you missed a real treat. However, it’s not too late to learn how your congregation can promote physical activity in your local community by allowing outside groups and individuals to use your facilities. … [Read more...] about Recording of Shared Use Agreement Webinar Now Available
April is National Minority Health Month
Differences in health currently exist between minorities and non-Hispanic whites in the U.S., with people of color suffering disproportionately from chronic diseases, many of which are preventable. During the month of April, your congregation is invited to commemorate National … [Read more...] about April is National Minority Health Month
Healthy North Carolina 2020: Are We Gaining or Losing Ground?
Healthy North Carolina 2020 is a health improvement plan for our state. It addresses a wide range of issues that impact our health, such as tobacco use, physical activity and nutrition, mental health, and injury and violence. Optimal goals have been established in each of these … [Read more...] about Healthy North Carolina 2020: Are We Gaining or Losing Ground?
PHW Success Story – Ebenezer Missionary Baptist, Wadesboro
Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church in Wadesboro kicked off the New Year with a renewed focus on healthy living as a practice of their faith. To illustrate, they provided “Go Red” gift bags to women highlighting the importance of different health tests like blood glucose, blood … [Read more...] about PHW Success Story – Ebenezer Missionary Baptist, Wadesboro
Allowing Access to Church Facilities to Promote Physical Activity: Free Webinar
Partners in Health and Wholeness recently teamed up with the NC Division of Public Health, Faithful Families and Voices into Action to assess what is currently happening around shared use agreements in faith communities across the state and to identify opportunities for … [Read more...] about Allowing Access to Church Facilities to Promote Physical Activity: Free Webinar
PHW-Certified Congregation Receives Funding to Improve Access to Healthy Foods
Love Fellowship Believers - a PHW Silver-Certified Congregation located in Greensboro and under the pastoral leadership of Rev. Kevin Webb – was awarded a Statewide Pioneering Healthier Communities Youth Advocacy grant to take on the issue of healthy food access in their local … [Read more...] about PHW-Certified Congregation Receives Funding to Improve Access to Healthy Foods
2014 PHW Certification & Mini-Grants: We’re Now Accepting Applications!
New activities and requirements for the 2014 Partners in Health and Wholeness Certification Program are now posted on our website! We hope that you will join this statewide movement to improve the health of people of faith through increased physical activity, healthy eating and … [Read more...] about 2014 PHW Certification & Mini-Grants: We’re Now Accepting Applications!
Beech Valley Baptist Church in Sugar Grove to Participate in Strive to Revive Cardiac Arrest Rescue Program
High Country Press Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (BCBSNC), the North Carolina Council of Churches, the American Red Cross and Rep. Becky Carney have selected Beech Valley Baptist Church as one of more than 200 places of worship across the state to participate in … [Read more...] about Beech Valley Baptist Church in Sugar Grove to Participate in Strive to Revive Cardiac Arrest Rescue Program
PHW Receives Outstanding Community Service Award
PHW received an Outstanding Community Service Award from Peletah Ministries in New Bern, under the leadership of Pastors Anthony and Dawn Baldwin Gibson, on Saturday, January 11. Peletah Ministries, a small congregation of about 50 people, is making a real difference in their … [Read more...] about PHW Receives Outstanding Community Service Award
PHW Success Story – Tabernacle of Deliverance, Rocky Mount
Tabernacle of Deliverance is a non-denominational church located in a low socioeconomic community that strives to promote health and wellness along with spiritual guidance to those residing in the community. Programs targeted at at-risk youth are encouraged and implemented, … [Read more...] about PHW Success Story – Tabernacle of Deliverance, Rocky Mount
Calvary Baptist Takes Part in Cardiac Arrest Rescue Program
The Sylva Herald Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, the N.C. Council of Churches, the American Red Cross and state Rep. Becky Carney have selected Calvary Baptist Church as one of more than 200 places of worship across the state to participate in Strive to Revive. The … [Read more...] about Calvary Baptist Takes Part in Cardiac Arrest Rescue Program
Eat as an Act of Worship this Holiday Season
This is a special time of year. For Christians, it’s a time of Advent or expectant waiting for our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. This period of anticipation culminates on Christmas Day, when many Western churches celebrate Jesus’ birth. And these celebrations can take on many … [Read more...] about Eat as an Act of Worship this Holiday Season
PHW Launches New Breastfeeding Program, Welcomes New Staff
PHW was recently awarded a two-year implementation grant from the John Rex Endowment to promote breastfeeding in low-resource congregations in Wake County. Marnie Cooper Priest, a native of Maine and a Certified Professional Midwife, will oversee this work. Marnie earned a … [Read more...] about PHW Launches New Breastfeeding Program, Welcomes New Staff
Church Youth Groups Invited to Apply for Funding to Create Healthier Communities
Partners in Health and Wholeness is teaming up with the NC Alliance of YMCAs to identify organizations, like churches, with active youth groups who seek to improve the health of their local community. This opportunity, called the Statewide Pioneering Healthier Communities Teen … [Read more...] about Church Youth Groups Invited to Apply for Funding to Create Healthier Communities
Voices of Moral Mondays: Created in God’s Image by Willona Stallings
The NC Council of Churches is proud to publish a brand new e-book collection of testimonies from Moral Mondays. With 32 short vignettes from North Carolinians across the state, Voices of Moral Mondays tells the story of everyday folks being motivated to speak out on account of … [Read more...] about Voices of Moral Mondays: Created in God’s Image by Willona Stallings
Deadline Approaching: Survey to Assess Churches’ Facility Use by Community Members
Partners in Health and Wholeness would like to learn about the use of your congregation’s facilities by outside groups and individuals through a Faith Community Facility Use Agreement Survey. Findings from this survey will help our staff and community partners – i.e., Voices into … [Read more...] about Deadline Approaching: Survey to Assess Churches’ Facility Use by Community Members
PHW Success Story – St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, Durham
Our congregation has used PHW’s gold status requirements as a framework for implementing activities throughout the year. Our priest, Jonah Kendall, led our health directive through his healthy and active lifestyle and by creating a PowerPoint presentation regarding health and … [Read more...] about PHW Success Story – St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, Durham
Survey to Assess Churches’ Facility Use by Local Community Members
Partners in Health and Wholeness would like to learn about the use of your congregation’s facilities by outside groups and individuals through a Faith Community Facility Use Agreement Survey. Findings from this survey will help our staff and community partners – i.e., Voices into … [Read more...] about Survey to Assess Churches’ Facility Use by Local Community Members
PHW Success Story – Zion Wall Free Will Baptist, Linden
We are honored to be the recipient of the Bronze mini-grant award in the amount of $500. Under the leadership and guidance of Elder Jerry Jones, the membership of Zion Wall has consented to the Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) Congregational Pledge. We formed the First … [Read more...] about PHW Success Story – Zion Wall Free Will Baptist, Linden
PHW Receives Faith & Community Health Excellence Award
I had the pleasure of attending the Tri-Regional Faith and Community Health Summit in Atlanta, GA on October 3-5. The event was chock-full of dynamic speakers and informative sessions. Some of the topics included: the impact of institutionalized racism on health outcomes, the … [Read more...] about PHW Receives Faith & Community Health Excellence Award
Healthy Communities, Healthy Churches Summit
Partners in Health and Wholeness is co-sponsoring a Healthy Communities, Healthy Churches Summit on Saturday, September 7 from 10am-3pm in New Bern (Christ Episcopal Ministry Center, 311 Middle Street). The Summit will provide information on local health initiatives, funding … [Read more...] about Healthy Communities, Healthy Churches Summit
PHW Success Story – Sparta Presbyterian Church, Sparta
Our future PHW program is aimed toward achieving Gold Certification. As we uphold our Silver Certification we will continue to provide worship bulletin inserts on health. Also, healthy potluck lunches will be pursued and healthy snacks for children will be maintained. We have … [Read more...] about PHW Success Story – Sparta Presbyterian Church, Sparta
Social Service Groups to Enroll NC Residents for Subsidized Insurance
By John Murawski, Raleigh News & Observer They plan to fan out across the state visiting community centers, school gyms, churches, libraries, waiting rooms and shopping centers. Their goal: Sign up as many North Carolina residents as possible for subsidized insurance under … [Read more...] about Social Service Groups to Enroll NC Residents for Subsidized Insurance
Laurinburg Presbyterian Lets People Grow Food on its Property
By Chick Jacobs, The Fayetteville Observer Sam Thompson was looking for a sunny spot to plant tomatoes. He ended up leading an award-winning community revolution. Thompson, an elder at Laurinburg Presbyterian Church, pitched the idea of a community garden to the church six … [Read more...] about Laurinburg Presbyterian Lets People Grow Food on its Property
Grant to Strengthen Community Garden Program
By Sigrid Hall, Winston-Salem Chronicle The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (BCBSNC) Foundation has partnered with the North Carolina Council of Churches to provide grants to faith-based organizations to help them supply healthy eating alternatives to their … [Read more...] about Grant to Strengthen Community Garden Program
Piney Grove Baptist Ministries Helped with Healthy Eating Equipment Grant
By David Broyles, Mt. Airy News Piney Grove Baptist Church’s food ministries recently got a boost from the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation (BCBSNC) in the form of a $5,000 healthy eating equipment grant. The effort is a partnership between BCBSNC and … [Read more...] about Piney Grove Baptist Ministries Helped with Healthy Eating Equipment Grant
PHW Success Story – St. Timothy’s Episcopal, Winston-Salem
We have been busy growing in health and wholeness at St.Timothy's! Our biggest venture towards a healthy congregation has been to start a parish garden. The garden has been a dream of the parish for some time, but this year we finally took the risk of getting it started. We … [Read more...] about PHW Success Story – St. Timothy’s Episcopal, Winston-Salem
PHW Success Story – Shalom Community Christian Church, Greensboro
Our church has made a concerted effort to emphasize healthy living to our congregation in several ways. We have partnered with another church in our area to sponsor and host a Health and Wellness fair. We have made a conscious effort to utilize healthier snacks for our youth … [Read more...] about PHW Success Story – Shalom Community Christian Church, Greensboro
PHW Success Story – Greater St. Matthews, Wadesboro
Greater St. Matthews has an aerobics class three times a week and offers quarterly nutrition classes. We have also held a fruit and vegetable luncheon to assist with making healthy choices and finding easier ways to include fruits and vegetables with every meal. The healthy … [Read more...] about PHW Success Story – Greater St. Matthews, Wadesboro
Twenty Congregations Receive Funding to Increase Access to Healthy, Local Foods
The North Carolina Council of Churches has partnered with the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (BCBSNC) Foundation to provide more than $90,000 in Healthy Eating Equipment grants to twenty places of worship in our state. These equipment grants will be used to increase … [Read more...] about Twenty Congregations Receive Funding to Increase Access to Healthy, Local Foods
Underlying Factors Contributing to Poor Health
A person’s health is not only determined by genetics, their level of physical activity or how many fruits and vegetables they consume, but also underlying factors like poverty, education and housing. In North Carolina, we use tier county designations provided by the North … [Read more...] about Underlying Factors Contributing to Poor Health
Were You at the March on Washington?
On a hot Wednesday afternoon in August 1963, thousands of Americans from all parts of the nation converged on the Washington Mall, determined in mind and spirit, demonstrating collectively for jobs, freedom, and equality. This day would go down in history as the pivotal March on … [Read more...] about Were You at the March on Washington?
PHW Success Story – Islamic Association of Raleigh
The Islamic Association of Raleigh (IAR) is blessed to have a kitchen/restaurant facility which serves the entire community on different occasions. There is also the community’s school garden that is taken care of and well-groomed by the students, parents, teachers and staff of … [Read more...] about PHW Success Story – Islamic Association of Raleigh
PHW Success Story – Pathway to Peace Ministries, Peachland
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NYQamYonCoc Pathway to Peace Ministries, under the pastoral leadership of Rev. Cary Rodgers and located in Anson County, received a PHW mini-grant for their efforts to improve the health of their members and wider community. Pathway to Peace used … [Read more...] about PHW Success Story – Pathway to Peace Ministries, Peachland
Rethink What You Eat
http://youtu.be/9IM0AmkyMzs Who said change is easy? Or that it can only come as a result of well-meaning adults’ efforts? Well, a youth group in New Orleans, called the “Rethinkers”, would beg to differ. They saw a problem (unhealthy foods served in school) and made a … [Read more...] about Rethink What You Eat
PHW Success Story – Ward Street Mission UMC, High Point
Since 2010, beginning with the spring growing season, Ward Street Mission United Methodist Church has implemented a concept called, “House Gardens Greening Project”. The concept is simple. Instead of having a "community garden" at one site at the church, we have created a … [Read more...] about PHW Success Story – Ward Street Mission UMC, High Point
PHW Success Story – First Baptist, Lumberton
First Baptist Church in Lumberton – under the leadership of Dr. TR Murray and PHW Liaison Jay Leggette – is participating in the Partners in Health and Wholeness Certification Program, demonstrating their commitment to health as a practice of their faith. They serve healthier … [Read more...] about PHW Success Story – First Baptist, Lumberton
A Healthier NC: It’s All Up to Us!
Today marks the beginning of a very important journey for our state – a journey toward better health for all North Carolinians. A Healthier NC is a statewide campaign/challenge to engage 1 million North Carolinians in 15 hours of activity, to transform lives and to lose 10 … [Read more...] about A Healthier NC: It’s All Up to Us!
Free AEDs and CPR Training for Select Counties
The NC Council of Churches, American Red Cross and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of NC are partnering together to provide more Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and CPR training to places of worship in select counties. To date, 183 congregations have received an award. To … [Read more...] about Free AEDs and CPR Training for Select Counties
Preparing the Way: Nourishing God’s Children, Body and Soul
From Chapter 4 of Preparing the Way: A Social Justice Study for Lent. We're offering this free resource to you and your congregation as we walk through the season of Lent together. Download the full PDF here. Scripture: Matthew 7:9-10 (NRSV) “Is there anyone among you who, if … [Read more...] about Preparing the Way: Nourishing God’s Children, Body and Soul
PHW Funding Opportunity – Webinar Posted
Partners in Health and Wholeness, in partnership with the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of NC Foundation, recently conducted a webinar for places of worship interested in the new Healthy Eating Equipment grants. Please click here to access the webinar slides, audio and application … [Read more...] about PHW Funding Opportunity – Webinar Posted
PHW Update: New Funding Opportunity for Congregations
The NC Council of Churches is happy to announce a new partnership with the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of NC Foundation to increase access to healthy, local food through the distribution of Healthy Eating Equipment grants in select parts of the state. The grants can be used to … [Read more...] about PHW Update: New Funding Opportunity for Congregations
Protect Yourself and Others This Flu Season
Over the holidays, North Carolina State Health Director, Dr. Laura Gerald, put out a press release urging all North Carolinians over the age of 6 months to get their annual flu shot. Public health professionals have deemed this year’s flu season to be the worst in recent years. … [Read more...] about Protect Yourself and Others This Flu Season
Looking for Community Sparkplugs for a Healthier Wilson County
Community Sparkplugs are individuals who: Have enthusiasm and make things happen Are the go to person in their neighborhood, school, community or church Can mobilize and galvanize others for the common good Want to help their community become more active and eat … [Read more...] about Looking for Community Sparkplugs for a Healthier Wilson County
Faith and Weight Loss: NC Churches Encourage Members to be Healthy
By Stephanie Carroll Carson, Public News Service - NC LUMBERTON, N.C. - Weight loss is the most popular New Year's resolution being made by North Carolinians and people around the country, according to new data from the University of Scranton. The goal of being healthier is even … [Read more...] about Faith and Weight Loss: NC Churches Encourage Members to be Healthy
Update on Free AED and CPR Program
In the spring of this year, the NC Council of Churches and our partners, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of NC and the American Red Cross, awarded 34 free Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and CPR training to congregations across the state. This was done in an effort to reduce … [Read more...] about Update on Free AED and CPR Program
PHW Featured in NC Medical Journal
Willona Stallings, PHW Program Coordinator, co-authored a section on working with faith communities to improve population health in the September/October issue of the NC Medical Journal (NCMJ). Stallings highlighted the intrinsic strengths of congregations across NC and the US to … [Read more...] about PHW Featured in NC Medical Journal
Mini-grants to Support Congregations in Promoting Health
Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW), the Council’s faith-based health initiative, is now offering mini-grants to support congregations in your efforts to promote healthy, active lifestyles. In order to qualify, a congregation must first become PHW-certified – i.e., offer … [Read more...] about Mini-grants to Support Congregations in Promoting Health
Registration for PHW Faith and Health Summit
Friday, October 10, 2014; 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Registration starts at 8:30 a.m. Ardmore Baptist Church 501 Miller Street, Winston-Salem Please use the scroll bar to complete entire form and click submit button. Loading... … [Read more...] about Registration for PHW Faith and Health Summit
A Personal Story of Faith and Health
Cross-posted at BCBSNC Foundation. My faith journey began at an early age and in a somewhat nontraditional way. I fondly remember attending weekly prayer meetings and Bible studies at my grandmother’s house in rural North Carolina. Community members would come from all … [Read more...] about A Personal Story of Faith and Health
New County Health Rankings Point to Disparities in Health
The 2012 County Health Rankings report, recently released by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute, points to major disparities in health by geographic location – with urban areas like Wake, Durham, Mecklenburg and Guilford … [Read more...] about New County Health Rankings Point to Disparities in Health
Annual Christian Educational Institute to be held in Dobbins Heights
By Richmond County Daily Journal The Pee Dee Baptist Educational Congress, an auxiliary to the Pee Dee Baptist Educational Association, will conduct the Annual Christian Educational Institute from March 19 to 23, 2012, at the Pee Dee Educational Building in Dobbin … [Read more...] about Annual Christian Educational Institute to be held in Dobbins Heights
Places of Worship Addressing Youth Health
A recent report by the U.S. Surgeon General revealed that a large number of America’s youth – 600,000 middle school students and three million high school students – smoke cigarettes. At best, this information is disturbing, not only because it shows that progress made over the … [Read more...] about Places of Worship Addressing Youth Health
New Resources from Partners in Health and Wholeness
The NC Council of Churches’ Partners in Health and Wholeness Initiative has created three new fact sheets to help clergy and congregants improve their health. Do you want to know what our scriptures teach about leading a healthier lifestyle? How many North Carolinians are … [Read more...] about New Resources from Partners in Health and Wholeness
New Nutritional Standards for School Lunches
Back in November, I told you about the political battle that was ensuing over school lunches in our country. More specifically, the Obama Administration was calling for healthier meals made with less fat and sodium as well as more fruits and vegetables, while the spending bill … [Read more...] about New Nutritional Standards for School Lunches
Obese Corpses Rejected for Medical Research
Carrying excess weight poses a number of health and other problems, but who knew such problems could extend past death? According to a recent report by MSNBC, many donation programs are refusing corpses that weigh more than 200 to 300 pounds because they simply do not have the … [Read more...] about Obese Corpses Rejected for Medical Research
Free Resources to Help You Begin 2012 Tobacco Free
Our friends at the NC Division of Public Health would like to help current tobacco users quit by offering NC residents, 18 years of age or older, free nicotine replacement therapy (i.e., patches, gum or lozenges) while supplies last. In addition to being a NC resident and at … [Read more...] about Free Resources to Help You Begin 2012 Tobacco Free
Free AEDs and CPR Trainings for Congregations
Have you ever been in church when someone suffered a heart attack? If so, you know that helpless feeling of having to wait for help to arrive as critical seconds, then minutes go by. In 2009, Representative Becky Carney went into sudden cardiac arrest while at the legislative … [Read more...] about Free AEDs and CPR Trainings for Congregations
NC Ranks 21st in Protecting Youth from Tobacco
According to a recent report released by top public health organizations, NC spends just 16.2% of the $106.8 million recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on programs to prevent youth from using tobacco and to help current smokers quit. The Health and … [Read more...] about NC Ranks 21st in Protecting Youth from Tobacco
Placing Obese Children in Foster Care: Does the Punishment Fit the “Crime”?
The debate over whether to place morbidly obese children in foster care or to leave them in an unhealthy home environment resurfaced a few days ago when a 200-pound eight-year-old boy from Ohio was removed from his home. Case workers grew concerned when their attempts to work … [Read more...] about Placing Obese Children in Foster Care: Does the Punishment Fit the “Crime”?
The Debate over Healthier School Lunches
As the U.S. grapples with falling home prices, rising unemployment and poverty, members of Congress can’t even agree on what to serve our school-aged children for lunch! The Obama administration – in concert with the First Lady’s flagship health initiative, Let’s Move! – has … [Read more...] about The Debate over Healthier School Lunches
NC Smoke-free Law Results in Fewer Heart Attacks
North Carolina has scored another victory! About a week ago, you joined me in celebrating our record low infant mortality rates; now there’s evidence that since the enactment of smoke-free restaurants and bars in North Carolina in January 2010, our heart attack rates have … [Read more...] about NC Smoke-free Law Results in Fewer Heart Attacks
Bladen Churches Unite: Being Healthy, Being Faithful 2012
BladenJournal.com Joy Williams of Partners in Health and Wholeness, a Christian-based organization, will collaborate with churches and the parish nurse on Monday, Nov. 28, at 5:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall of Elizabethtown Presbyterian Church at 800 W. Broad St. (across from … [Read more...] about Bladen Churches Unite: Being Healthy, Being Faithful 2012
How Our Health Affects the Bottom Line
A new report by the Trust for America’s Health examines how the health of a community affects its ability to attract new businesses and to ultimately stimulate economic growth. Businesses across the country are discovering that unhealthy employees are more expensive to retain, … [Read more...] about How Our Health Affects the Bottom Line
New Report: NC’s Infant Mortality Rate Lowest in State History
North Carolina has cause to celebrate – our 2010 infant mortality rate is the lowest ever, down 11.4 percent from 2009. According to the NC State Center for Health Statistics, there were seven infant deaths for every 1,000 live births in 2010, compared to 7.9 infant deaths per … [Read more...] about New Report: NC’s Infant Mortality Rate Lowest in State History
Nonprofit Offers Pharmacy Program
By Alexa Milan, The Sanford Herald As North Carolinians continue to struggle with unemployment and increasingly tighter wallets, they are faced with difficult choices regarding how to spend their money — paying this month's electricity bill versus filling a prescription for … [Read more...] about Nonprofit Offers Pharmacy Program
November is American Diabetes Month
According to the American Diabetes Association, more people die from this disease each year than from breast cancer and AIDS combined! The nearly 26 million Americans currently living with diabetes are also at increased risk for heart disease and stroke, kidney failure, … [Read more...] about November is American Diabetes Month
Safety Net Programs: They’re Worth Fighting For
Cross-posted at NC Policy Watch. It’s hard to read or watch the news these days without coming across at least one story that centers around the economic hardships facing our nation – rising unemployment; falling housing prices; climbing national debt, which now sits at more … [Read more...] about Safety Net Programs: They’re Worth Fighting For
The Cost of Obesity
Last week, I wrote briefly on the efforts local churches in Mississippi have made to improve the health of their communities. Unfortunately, our nation is trending in the opposite, less-healthy direction. A recent report on the international obesity crisis from The Lancet states … [Read more...] about The Cost of Obesity
Improving the Health of Communities from Within
“I’ve been eating this way my entire life.” “It tastes better this way.” “This is how we’ve always done it.” Statements like these are how many support their less-than-healthy eating habits. However, in these days of bleak health statistics about obesity, diabetes, and … [Read more...] about Improving the Health of Communities from Within
Food or Medicine?
Buy food or buy medicine? That's the choice that far too many uninsured individuals face every day, but our friends at NC MedAssist - a statewide non-profit pharmacy providing FREE prescription medicines to low-income, uninsured North Carolinians - are here to solve the … [Read more...] about Food or Medicine?
Get Out and Play!
Our friends at Be Active North Carolina are challenging churches and other community groups to join the fight against childhood obesity by creating organized events where people can get out and play. North Carolina Play Daze is the official name of this statewide campaign to … [Read more...] about Get Out and Play!
Youth Empowerment Training: Laurinburg
Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) held our first joint training with Youth Empowered Solutions (YES!) on Saturday, August 6, in Scotland County. There were valuable opportunities to network with other churches and organizations to promote a growth in organizational … [Read more...] about Youth Empowerment Training: Laurinburg
The Parable Garden
Looking for a little inspiration to plant a garden at your church or in your community? Have questions about the whole process or need a little grant money to get you started? Well, keep reading…. A United Methodist church in Hickory, NC and the First Lady’s Let’s Move Faith … [Read more...] about The Parable Garden
Youth Empowerment Training for Clergy: Eastover
Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW), in partnership with Youth Empowered Solutions, will hold its second youth empowerment training for clergy and other adults who work with youth on Saturday, September 17, 2011 from 10am-2pm in Eastover, NC. Clergy will learn how to motivate … [Read more...] about Youth Empowerment Training for Clergy: Eastover
Free Youth Empowerment Training for Clergy
Partners in Health and Wholeness, in partnership with Youth Empowered Solutions, will provide FREE TRAININGS to clergy and other adults who work with youth to create positive community change through strong health advocacy, particularly as it relates to increasing access to … [Read more...] about Free Youth Empowerment Training for Clergy
Being Consumed by Our Food
It should be no surprise to anyone that obesity rates in the United States are still rising, as a recent report emphasized by giving America an “F” as in fat. Neither should it be too surprising that the rates of increase seem to be leveling out in the last couple of years. … [Read more...] about Being Consumed by Our Food
The NFL Needs Your Help to Combat Childhood Obesity
If your congregation is looking for a fun, creative way to combat childhood obesity, then the NFL – that’s right, the National Football League – has just the answer for you! The NFL is partnering with schools and community organizations, including churches, across the country to … [Read more...] about The NFL Needs Your Help to Combat Childhood Obesity
Welcome, Joy Williams!
The North Carolina Council of Churches is proud to welcome Joy Williams as our new Partners in Health and Wholeness Regional Consultant. Joy will assist the Council in promoting health as a practice of our faith, focusing on program implementation in Anson, Bladen, Columbus, … [Read more...] about Welcome, Joy Williams!
Free Tools to Help You Live Healthier
Partners in Health and Wholeness, an initiative of the North Carolina Council of Churches, is pleased to bring to your attention the following free health tools which are designed to help you and your loved ones make healthier choices: ChooseMyPlate.gov - Uses the plate as a … [Read more...] about Free Tools to Help You Live Healthier
Upcoming Health Events in Wake and Chatham Counties
Friends of the Council are encouraged to participate in one or both of the following community events, each of which is designed to help you take better care of your health: FIRST EVENT: Heart/Stroke Healthy Living Cooking Demonstration Several Wake County organizations – … [Read more...] about Upcoming Health Events in Wake and Chatham Counties
Better Choices, Better Health
Our friends at the Living Healthy Chronic Disease Self Management Program (CDSMP) would like to invite members of your congregation to take advantage of their FREE online workshop – Better Choices, Better Health™ – which is designed to help individuals self-manage their chronic … [Read more...] about Better Choices, Better Health
Free Webinar on Physical Activity for Churches
Our friends at Body & Soul, a faith-based health initiative, are offering a free Webinar to clergy and congregants who are looking for creative ways to be more physically active during church events and services. When? Tuesday, May 24 What Time? 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. … [Read more...] about Free Webinar on Physical Activity for Churches
Community Gardens Springing Up in Raleigh
For churches and other nonprofits in Raleigh that wish to grow a community garden but currently lack the land space to do so, your dream may soon become a reality thanks to proposed changes in land use restrictions. In July, Raleigh City Council members will review a policy … [Read more...] about Community Gardens Springing Up in Raleigh
Chronic Disease Legislative Awareness Day
More than two dozen public health organizations, including the Council’s very own Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) Initiative, gathered together for Chronic Disease Legislative Awareness Day on Wednesday, March 23 at the NC General Assembly. We were on hand to share … [Read more...] about Chronic Disease Legislative Awareness Day
Praise the Lard? Religion Linked to Obesity in Young Adults
A recent study conducted by researchers at Northwestern University found a link between religious activity and obesity in men and women who, at the start of the study, were between the ages of 20 and 32 and of normal weight. After eighteen years of follow-up, however, those … [Read more...] about Praise the Lard? Religion Linked to Obesity in Young Adults
Calling all Community Sparkplugs!
The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation - in partnership with the North Carolina Council of Churches, Center for Environmental Farming Systems, North Carolina PTA, and North Carolina Recreation and Park Association - is looking for "Community Sparkplugs" to … [Read more...] about Calling all Community Sparkplugs!
Grants to Create Healthier Communities
By David Anderson, "BC/BS Foundation Awards Grants in Lenoir Co.", ENCToday.com Lenoir County is the first county in the state to receive grant awards through the “Spark Plug” program, an initiative of the Blue Cross/Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation to promote healthy … [Read more...] about Grants to Create Healthier Communities
Prospect Presbyterian’s Health Efforts Noted
Salisbury Post Prospect Presbyterian Church, 9425 W. NC Hwy 152 in Mooresville, has achieved the North Carolina Council of Churches’ first Gold Certification for the congregation’s commitment to better health. The Rev. Joanne Hull serves as Prospect’s pastor with Sybil … [Read more...] about Prospect Presbyterian’s Health Efforts Noted
Healthy Focus
BY WILLONA STALLINGS FOR THE RALEIGH NEWS & OBSERVER The 26th Annual Emerging Issues Forum in downtown Raleigh on Feb. 7 and 8 focused specifically on new and promising innovations in health care. Throughout the forum, there was one group in particular that seemed to get a … [Read more...] about Healthy Focus
Mooresville Church Receives First PHW Gold Certificate
Prospect Presbyterian Church in Mooresville has received the North Carolina Council of Churches’ first Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) Gold Certificate for their commitment to better health. Rev. Joanne Hull serves as Prospect’s pastor. Congregations from different … [Read more...] about Mooresville Church Receives First PHW Gold Certificate
Churches All the Talk at Important Health Care Meeting
As a representative of faith-based health in North Carolina, I had the distinct pleasure of attending the 26th Annual Emerging Issues Forum in downtown Raleigh on February 7th and 8th, which focused specifically on new and promising innovations in health care. Governor Beverly … [Read more...] about Churches All the Talk at Important Health Care Meeting
PHW Certification Program: Apply Today!
Description: Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) is offering a yearly certification process to congregations across the state. As of January 1, 2011, congregations can now achieve all three levels of certification – Bronze, Silver and Gold – and receive recognition from the … [Read more...] about PHW Certification Program: Apply Today!
Affordable Health Insurance for People with Pre-existing Conditions
Inclusive Health – a nonprofit organization created by the state to provide affordable health insurance to people with pre-existing medical conditions – offered a free webinar to clergy and other faith leaders on Tuesday, January 18. If you were unable to participate in this … [Read more...] about Affordable Health Insurance for People with Pre-existing Conditions
Partners in Health and Wholeness Training
Partners in Health and Wholeness held an informational session/training at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Goldsboro on Saturday, January 29. The event was a follow-up to the PHW Clergy Breakfast which was held back in August of 2010 at St. James A.M.E. Zion Church in … [Read more...] about Partners in Health and Wholeness Training
Health-Related Bulletin Inserts for the Faith Community
Eat Smart, Move More North Carolina – the same group that brought to us the Maintain, Don’t Gain Holiday Challenge – has developed health-related bulletin inserts for the faith community. These inserts provide short, easy-to-read messages on a variety of health topics such as … [Read more...] about Health-Related Bulletin Inserts for the Faith Community
Let’s Move!
On November 29, 2010, First Lady Michelle Obama and the White House Office of Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships met with people of faith from across the country to discuss the elimination of childhood obesity. The White House is challenging churches and other places of … [Read more...] about Let’s Move!
Partners in Health and Wholeness Training
Training for Clergy, PHW Liaisons and Health Professionals Sponsored by the North Carolina Council of Churches Date: Saturday, January 29, 2011 Time: 10am - Noon Location: St. Stephen's Episcopal Church 200 North James Street, Goldsboro 27530 Overview: Are you a pastor or … [Read more...] about Partners in Health and Wholeness Training
Clergy and Real Life
Raleigh News & Observer Thank you for bringing awareness to the issue of clergy mental health in your Nov. 11 article, "Depression is an Occupational Hazard for Clergy." Too often, we expect ministers of the gospel to have all of the answers and to be available 24/7 to … [Read more...] about Clergy and Real Life
The Child Obesity Crisis
Raleigh News & ObserverThe issue of overweight and obesity is not new - earlier this year, it was reported that NC is the 10th most obese state in the nation for adults and the 11th most overweight and obese state for children. However, the Raleigh News & Observer - in … [Read more...] about The Child Obesity Crisis
Health Care Reform: May Truth Prevail!
Faithful Reform in Health Care - an interfaith organization that works to provide people of faith with accurate, timely information on health care reform and to engage us in the legislative process - has launched a new program aimed specifically at dispelling rumors about the … [Read more...] about Health Care Reform: May Truth Prevail!
Helpful Information on Health Care Reform
The passing of health care reform legislation earlier this year has sparked a number of questions from both opponents of the new law and those who have supported it from the outset. What will it cover? When will different parts of the law take effect? What types of insurance, … [Read more...] about Helpful Information on Health Care Reform
Health Stewardship
By Willona Stallings, Raleigh News & Observer I appreciated the Aug. 22 article about Ben Roberts, owner of Foundation Fitness in Greensboro, who traveled between Raleigh and Greensboro challenging employees to be physically active. When working with different groups, … [Read more...] about Health Stewardship
PHW Clergy Breakfast on Health: A Resounding Success
The North Carolina Council of Churches held its first-ever Clergy Breakfast on Health on Thursday, August 26 at St. James African Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E.) Zion Church in Goldsboro. Twenty-five local pastors and health professionals were in attendance. Rev. Joseph C. Brown, … [Read more...] about PHW Clergy Breakfast on Health: A Resounding Success
Health Care Reform and Communities of Faith
Faithful Reform in Health Care - an organization dedicated to quality, accessible health care for all - has studied how the new health care reform legislation impacts communities of faith. In their new report, called "The Heart in Health Care Reform," they … [Read more...] about Health Care Reform and Communities of Faith
Health Disparities: A Moral Issue
Disparities in health often mean earlier death and increased morbidity for one group of people versus another. Groups can be defined by race, ethnicity, age, sex, disability status, geography (urban vs. rural), or socioeconomic status. In the case of health disparities defined … [Read more...] about Health Disparities: A Moral Issue
Promoting good health can be a spiritual calling
By Willona Stallings, Greensboro News & Record According to Trust for America's Health, as reported in the News & Record on June 29, North Carolina is now the 10th-heaviest state, after ranking No. 12 just one year ago. This signifies a reduced quality of life for more … [Read more...] about Promoting good health can be a spiritual calling