WeThrive! Pathways
Chronic Disease Pathway
Studies have shown that the prevention of Chronic Disease is not just a personal responsibility but that it is also an issue that communities face based on demographics of population, land usage, economic development, outreach programs and policies. Chronic Disease such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, and diabetes are among the most common, costly and preventable of all health problems. Leading a healthy lifestyle greatly reduces a person’s risk for developing chronic disease. Access to high-quality and affordable prevention measures are essential steps in saving lives, reducing disability and lowering costs for medical care.
What can the City of Montgomery do in the prevention of Chronic Disease? The City has established an Action Plan to guide health and wellness activities in the community. Examples of objectives on this Action Plan are:
- Provide healthy food choices at the Municipal Pool Concession Stand
- Work with the Montgomery Farmer’s Market to accept WIC (Women, Infant, Child) and SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits
- Review tobacco policies in public playgrounds
- Offer activities for Senior Adults in the City
Environmental Health Pathway
Environmental Health focuses on conditions in the environment that affect our health . Environmental factors, such as the physical living conditions, air and water quality, efficiency of waste removal, safety, and general environmental conditions play a role in determining who is most healthy. The Environmental Health Pathway addresses these determinants of health in an effort to prevent disease and create health-supportive environments where people can thrive.
The City of Montgomery has several Commissions that work together in different ways to investigate, monitor, and provide recommendations to maintain and improve upon the natural and commercial environment within the City.
The Beautification and Tree Commission works to maintain the Tree City USA designation and to monitor the health of the trees in the City. Trees contribute to their environment by providing oxygen, improving air quality, climate amelioration, conserving water, preserving soil, and supporting wildlife.
The Environmental Advisory Commission (EAC) monitors waste collection and the reduction of trash going to the landfill. They host programs that support recycling efforts and education. They also focus on air quality standards, water quality and pollution, and renewable energy strategies.
The Parks and Recreation Commission monitors all of the City Parks and respite areas to ensure that the natural environment is preserved and protected. They monitor water quality to check for contaminants entering the water streams. They look for soil contamination that would threaten natural foliage and forestry and wildlife that thrive within the parks. The Commission also backed a recommendation to City Council to make our Parks “Tobacco Free” with designated zones in parking lots for the use of tobacco.