Oklahoma Certified Healthy Communities
Purpose of Oklahoma Certified Healthy Communities
House Bill 2774 created the “Oklahoma Certified Healthy Communities Act” which establishes a voluntary certification program for communities that promote wellness, encourage the adoption of healthy behaviors and establishes safe and supportive environments. The Oklahoma Certified Healthy Community status recognizes Oklahoma communities for their outstanding efforts and achievements in actively creating healthier communities.
Reasons to Apply to be a Certified Healthy Community
- Create a healthier Oklahoma
- Community collaboration over shared health concerns
- Community recognition as a healthy place to live, work, learn and play
- Provides a town with guidelines for how to become a healthy community
- Helps a community make connections about how policies and ordinances impact health
Eligibility
Communities of all sizes are encouraged to apply to be an Oklahoma Certified Healthy Community. For the purpose of this application a community is defined as, “a city or town that has a governing body that allows it to make decisions and set ordinances.” Communities will only be allowed to submit one application and are encouraged to collaborate with local community coalitions, city planners, city council and local health care providers before completing application process. A community coalition, made up of several members would be an ideal group to apply for the Oklahoma Certified Healthy Communities status.
Communities will be Certified in One of Five Categories:
- Rural: population less than 4,300
- Small: population between 4,300 – 13,999
- Medium: population between 14,000 -29,999
- Large: population between 30,000 - 79,999
- Metro: population of 80,000 or more
Application Scoring
Applications are due November 1, 2011. Certification will be announced in December. Each application will be reviewed by the Oklahoma Certified Healthy Communities staff. The applications will be scored based on the total number of points awarded in each of the six criteria categories. Based on total number of points, communities will be awarded a basic, merit or excellence certification. To obtain basic, all City-owned/operated properties must be smoke free indoors. To obtain excellence communities must do the following:
- All city-owned/operated properties are tobacco free indoors and out
- Community farmer’s markets, corner stores and grocery stores accept (WIC) Women, Infants and Children, (SNAP) Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and Senior Nutrition Vouchers
- Active Safe Routes to School or Walking School Bus program
- Community promotion of public transit and/or van transport for health related services or needs (i.e. Doctor’s offices, Senior Centers, Assisted Living Centers, pharmacies or grocery stores, etc.)
- Community is engaged in a local community needs assessment addressing public health issues
- Community investment in safe, alcohol-free activities for prom and graduation
Application Process
We’re excited that you have an interest in becoming a Certified Healthy Community. The application process for 2011 has concluded. To view the 2011 criteria and prepare for next year, click here. If there are any questions please call Kathy Payne, 405.271.9444 ext 56507.
Incentives for Communities
After the application process concludes on November 1, those communities that become certified as a healthy community will be eligible to apply for grant funds to enhance community wellness policies and activities. More information on the certified healthy community grant incentive program will be available soon.