White House and Major Sports Leagues Unite to Promote Health and Fitness

In a significant move to promote physical activity and proper nutrition, the White House has announced unique partnerships with all major American sports leagues, as reported by Samantha Waldenberg, CNN. This initiative is part of the White House’s Challenge to End Hunger and Build Healthy Communities, launched in March 2023. The overarching aim is to eradicate hunger and enhance healthy eating and physical activity by 2030, alongside reducing diet-related diseases.

Joining forces with the White House are the NFL, NHL, MLB, NBA, WNBA, MLS, PGA Tour, and NWSL, as well as various players’ unions. These organizations have committed to engaging children in activities that promote exercise and better nutrition.

Second gentleman Douglas Emhoff highlighted the NFL’s commitment to this initiative. The league will expand its PLAY 60 platform, which encourages kids to get 60 minutes of physical activity each day. Since its launch in 2006, PLAY 60 has partnered with organizations like the American Heart Association and Special Olympics to promote youth fitness.

The NBA plans to extend its programs during the All-Star weekend in Indianapolis from February 16 to 18, focusing on combating hunger and enhancing physical activity programs. Emhoff also announced he will attend the All-Star festivities to support these efforts.

MLS will expand its «food recovery» programs to donate more meals to local communities, while the National Hockey League Players’ Association will hold events to collect and donate equipment to those in need.

In total, 14 sports leagues and players’ associations have signed agreements with the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition. Chef José Andrés, one of the council’s co-chairs, emphasized the need for robust nutritional programming in government policies, stating that food should be a key consideration in all decisions and actions.

The White House hinted at more partnerships and commitments to be announced in the coming weeks, furthering the goal of a healthier, more active America.