The Jersey City Department of Health and Human Services Director, Stacey Flanagan, made a special trip to the White House on Wednesday, September 16^th. On that day, Flanagan was honored by First Lady Michelle Obama on behalf of all local elected officials who participate in the NJ fitness Let’s Move! campaign.

During the event, Obama also announced that Jersey City was the first in the Tristate area to achieve the NJ health and fitness initiative’s goals and attain ‘gold’ status. Cities that reach ‘gold’ status must provide healthy school meals, opportunities for physical activity (during and after school), and healthier early care and education programs that run all year. 

In a media release about the Jersey City health and fitness accomplishment, Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop commented, "The work the Health Department is doing is changing lives across the city, as more and more residents young and old are becoming active, eating healthier and engaging with their community."

In 2013 the Mayor was tasked by the First Lady to spearhead a citywide push for physical fitness awareness. Fulop rose to the challenge by partnering with the Department of Health & Human Services to run a Healtheir JC campaign, which was accompanied by the hashtag #healthierJC. The partnership proved successful this year and the city’s efforts to promote NJ health and fitness were rewarded.  

In regards to the NJ fitness award, Fulop added, "We couldn't be prouder of this recognition by the First Lady and the Obama Administration, which acknowledges the success of our HHS staff in the Let's Move! campaign, which has been a launching pad for additional health programs and partnerships."

Congrats again Jersey City, on another NJ health and fitness achievement! It’s one more step toward healthy living and a healthier New Jersey!