The CDC SPAN (State Physical Activity and Nutrition) Program is a funding initiative from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) aimed at reducing health disparities related to nutrition, physical activity and obesity. The program focuses on evidence-based strategies for increasing access to healthy foods, creating safe and accessible opportunities for physical activity, promoting continuity of care in breastfeeding support, and creating healthy environments in early care and education settings.
In 2023, Georgia was awarded five-year funding under the CDC SPAN program to enhance the health of all Americans by implementing strategies that improve nutrition, promote physical well-being, and create healthier environments. The funding supports initiatives aimed at fostering long-term health improvements across the state, with a particular focus on people most affected by chronic diseases as well as those who need support for optimal early life growth and development. The Georgia Health Policy is the administrator of the statewide program.
Quality Care for Children plays a key role in Georgia’s CDC SPAN program by supporting early care and education (ECE) programs in implementing strategies that improve children’s health and well-being. Specifically, Quality Care for Children works to integrate Farm to Early Care and Education initiatives, promoting access to fresh, nutritious, locally sourced food for young children. Through this work, they help ECE providers enhance their meal programs, educate staff and families about healthy eating, and foster partnerships with local farmers and community organizations. Quality Care for Children’s efforts under the SPAN program aim to reduce health disparities, improve nutrition in early childhood settings, and create healthier environments for Georgia’s children.
Funding for the Eat, Learn, Grow Georgia provider website has been provided in-part from the CDC SPAN program.