Health Department initiates walking program

The Santa Rosa County Health Department has partnered with the Holley Navarre Intermediate School to initiate the school’s very own Walking School Bus Program.  The health department applied to the Healthy Communities, Healthy People grant announcement and received funding specifically to support the Walking School Bus program for the entire school year.

 According to the International Walk to School website, “International Walk to School Month gives children, parents, school teachers and community leaders an opportunity to be part of a global event as they celebrate the many benefits of walking. In 2009, millions of walkers from around the world walked to school together for various reasons — all hoping to create communities that are safe places to walk”.

Walking School Bus initiatives are popping up in schools all over the United States.  The goals of the Walking School Bus are to encourage children living within close proximity to the schools to choose walking instead of riding the school bus.  Students will be instructed on pedestrian safety and educated on how to be part of a safe walking system which includes trusted adult supervision and support of the community.

For more information call Debbie Stilphen at 850/983-5200 x 175 or email Debbie at Deborah_stilphen@doh.state.fl.us