Childhood Obesity Program Area

RWJF is committed to tackling one of the most urgent threats to the health of our children and families—childhood obesity. Our goal is to reverse the childhood obesity epidemic by 2015.

Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Statement Regarding Release of "In It for Good: 2012" Annual Progress Report by Partnership for a Healthier America

March 7, 2013 | Commentary

RWJF President and CEO Risa Lavizzo-Mourey sees "pockets of progress toward reversing the childhood obesity epidemic," but says more needs to be done.

Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Statement Regarding the Proposal of Updated Nutrition Standards for School Snack Foods and Beverages

February 1, 2013 | News Release

The USDA proposed updated nutrition standards. Foundation President and CEO Risa Lavizzo-Mourey released a statement.

July 2012 President's Message to the Board of Trustees

July 1, 2012 | Annual Report

In her July 2012 message, Risa Lavizzo-Mourey examines the challenges that confront the nation in the aftermath of the Supreme Court's landmark ruling upholding the Affordable Care Act.

Statement Regarding The Walt Disney Company's Pledge to Help Prevent Childhood Obesity Through New Marketing Standards

June 5, 2012 | Commentary/Story/Staff and Leadership

"Having fun is an important part of growing up. But kids can’t have fun if they aren’t healthy. We commend Disney for recognizing that, and for making changes in their business model to help kids lead healthier lives.”

RWJF Comments on Walmart "Great for You" Nutrition Icon

February 6, 2012 | Commentary/Story

Over the past year, Walmart has reformulated more than 150 products to reduce sodium and added sugar, cut prices on fruits and vegetables, and opened 20 new stores that bring healthy affordable foods to previously underserved “food deserts.”

New USDA School Meal Guidelines: Paving the Way for a Healthier Future for Millions of Children

January 24, 2012 | Commentary/Story

“These changes are badly needed. Although many schools have made significant improvements to their meal programs, we must ensure that all schools strive to provide more nutritious meals for students."

RWJF Statement Regarding Grocery Store Initiative

July 20, 2011 | Story

A statement by Risa Lavizzo-Mourey, M.D., M.B.A., president and CEO of the RWJF, regarding the commitment by several leading food retailers to build or expand supermarkets and grocery stores in underserved communities.

Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Statement Regarding Announcement of the National Prevention Strategy

June 16, 2011 | Commentary/Story

The following is a statement from Risa Lavizzo Mourey, M.D., M.B.A., president and CEO of the

Major Progress to Improve School Meals

April 6, 2011 | Story

More fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and fewer calories and unhealthy fats.

A Statement by Risa Lavizzo-Mourey on the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act

December 12, 2010 | Story

"We must take every opportunity afforded by this new law to improve the quality of meals, snacks and drinks available to students."