Norton to Speak at HHS Farmers' Market Grand Opening Today

Norton to Speak at HHS Farmers' Market Grand Opening

WASHINGTON, DC - Today Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), a longtime champion in the fight against obesity and unhealthy foods, will join the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius at the grand opening of FRESHFARM's newest farmers' market at 200 Independence Avenue SW at 2:30 p.m.

"Opening a fresh produce market at HHS when we've just passed the healthcare reform bill is more than symbolic," Norton said. This FRESHFARM points up the emphasis this administration and Congress have placed on taking preventative steps to make our nation healthier."

In January, Norton introduced the Lifelong Improvements in Food and Exercise (LIFE) Act to promote exercise and diet changes. Norton's LIFE bill directs the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to combat obesity and sedentary lifestyles in three ways: by conducting education campaigns to teach the public how to address overweight and obesity; by training health professionals to identify early signs of obesity and to educate people concerning healthful lifestyles; and by developing intervention strategies to be used in everyday life.

"More than 35% of all deaths in the United States result from physical inactivity, diet, alcohol consumption and tobacco use. In many neighborhoods across the District, fresh produce is not easily accessible. Farmers' markets in communities will help reduce chronic obesity and ultimately the long-term cost of healthcare."

The new FRESHFARM market at HHS will accept Food Stamps and other public assistance programs.