Oskaloosa Awarded Grant through Iowa Department of Public Health

Walking in Oskaloosa could be greatly improved in the future with a sidewalk study being just part of a $10,000 grant

Oskaloosa is taking the initiative to promote a healthier city. With assistance from Area 15 Regional Planning Commission, the City of Oskaloosa recently obtained a $10,000 grant through the Iowa Department of Public Health’s Healthy Iowans Initiative. The City was one of six communities in the State of Iowa to receive this award, which was designed to complement current physical fitness and nutrition – related programs around the city. In response to this award, city-wide group of community-minded citizens formed a local steering committee; the goal of which was to develop a work plan and determine where to allocate this funding award.

Ultimately, the steering committee chose to use the award for four different community-wide efforts. One portion went toward Fitnessgram software for the school district’s physical education departments, which is designed to assess, track, and report student’s fitness levels. The farmers market was given a portion of the award for promotional items, a canopy tent, and equipment for cooking demonstrations. The Mahaska Wellness Coalition was awarded funding as well, to promote health related events sponsored by the group. Lastly, a portion of the funds went toward the development of a comprehensive sidewalk study and action plan for the entire city. It is the intention that this plan lay the foundation to improve sidewalks throughout the city for years to come.