ATLANTA — Latinos in Atlanta are invited to participate in a new diabetes prevention and wellness program set to launch in January 2024.
The Hispanic Federation (HF), an organization that serves the Latinx community, will use a $3M grant awarded by the United Health Foundation to create a series of educational and awareness-building initiatives to combat the debilitating impact of diabetes in the Latino community.
Latinos are 17% more likely to have type 2 diabetes than non-Hispanic white people, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
Through the partnership, HF is looking for 500 participants in Atlanta to take part in the year-long prevention program. Those eligible will have access to educational resources that encourage healthy eating habits and physical activity.
Participants will receive various physical activity opportunities and resources to support healthy habits and address the other aspects of their lives that affect their risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
"On behalf of our more than 600 member organizations and partners, I thank the United Health Foundation for this transformative grant. This funding is going toward preventive diabetes programming that could ultimately save the lives of thousands of Latino adults and children," President and CEO of the Hispanic Federation Frankie Miranda said.
Miranda added the Hispanic Federation will work collaboratively with the United Health Foundation.
"We will empower our community with culturally and linguistically competent information while also expanding access to healthcare resources that prevent the onset of diabetes and improve the overall health of Latinos," Miranda said. "Many Latino families still struggle to access quality and affordable healthcare, which is why we're committed to breaking barriers to healthcare and helping Latinos lead healthier and longer lives."
Although focused mainly on Atlanta's Hispanic and Latino communities, anyone who qualifies and is interested is invited to apply. The three requirements for the program include having a certain BMI number, having experienced pre-gestational diabetes, or having a family history of diabetes.
The program is set to launch in 2024 and applications will be accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year-long program.
Those interested can click on this link for more information.