San Jose, CA – The American Diabetes Association (ADA) has been awarded $475,000 from Santa Clara County to expand type 2 prevention youth programs in Santa Clara County. The grant will fund a one-week, evidence-based camp to educate medically underserved children about the dangers of diabetes, for three consecutive years. The camps will provide much-needed education to approximately 500 children ages 8-15.
“Diabetes is one of the most pressing health challenges in Santa Clara County,” said Supervisor Ken Yeager. “It is rewarding to partner with the American Diabetes Association of Silicon Valley for work that is my passion. I, along with Dave Cortese am grateful for the opportunity to make a positive impact in the communities we serve to stop the upsurge of diabetes in children.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that by 2050, one-third of our children born in 2000 will develop diabetes in their lifetime. This number surges dramatically to one-half for minority children. Recent findings show that youth with diabetes have greater difficulty managing the disease than adults and experience complications such as heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, blindness and amputation at earlier ages.
The PowerUp camps will serve youth who have been identified to be at risk of developing diabetes or have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or pre diabetes. From screenings and education to better healthy choices and tips to a more active lifestyle—the daily curriculum will include outdoor play, arts and crafts, cooking techniques, and field trips.
“Our end goal is to teach campers how to make lasting lifestyle changes in order to live longer and healthier lives free from the burdens of diabetes,” said Richard Alejandro, American Diabetes Association Executive Director. “Thanks to the relentless support from the County Board of Supervisors and this generous grant, our unique program and steadfast dedication to the community, will help prevent type 2 diabetes among our youth—and beyond.”
About the American Diabetes Association –Silicon Valley
We lead the fight against the deadly consequences of diabetes and fight for those affected by diabetes. We fund research to prevent, cure and manage diabetes. We deliver services to hundreds of communities. We provide objective and credible information. We give voice to those denied their rights because of diabetes. Our Mission: To prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes.
