The United States Conference of Mayors (USCM) and the American Beverage Foundation for a Healthy America (ABFHA) announced today $745,000 in grants to nine U.S. cities that are the winners of the 2021 Childhood Obesity Prevention and Environmental Health and Sustainability Awards. The grants, which were awarded during USCM’s 89th Winter Meeting, go to mayors who initiate exceptional programs to enhance health, wellness, and environmental quality of life in American cities in ways that help children and families thrive.

“The quality of public health and the environment in a city is essential to a vibrant community, so addressing these issues in a cohesive manner supports mayors’ efforts to deliver even greater impact for their citizens,” said Katherine Lugar, president of the American Beverage Foundation for a Healthy America board of directors and president and CEO of the American Beverage Association. “Congratulations to all of the winning mayors and cities, whose extraordinary programs are more than deserving of these grants.”

Since the beginning of their partnership in 2012, USCM and ABFHA have jointly awarded more than $4.3 million to 54 cities across the nation. Awards are made in small, medium, and large city population categories. For 2021, the program was significantly expanded to increase the amounts awarded to 1st and 2nd place winners, and a 3rd place grant was added in each population category. The scope of the award was expanded as well to allow mayors to submit proposals for a greater range of environmental and sustainability initiatives while continuing to support proposals that address childhood obesity interventions.

“Mayors have long understood the critical role that safe, clean, and green spaces play in improving…