The Borough of Tamaqua has been recognized as a leader in the prevention of childhood obesity through the “Let’s Move! Cities, Towns and Countries” initiative. Recognition came in the form of five gold medals, presented by the National League of Cities.

The “Let’s Move” initiative is a key component of First Lady Michelle Obama’s campaign to ensure children have the means to grow up healthy. There are five goals, each targeted by different programs within the borough.“Start Early, Start Smart” promotes best practices for nutrition, physical activity, and screen time in early care and education settings. “My Plate, Your Place” includes the prominent display of MyPlate posters in all municipal or county venues where food is served. “Smart Servings for Students” expands access to meal programs before, during and after the school day, and/or over summer months. “Model Food Service, Implementing healthy and sustainable food service guidelines that are aligned with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.Active Kids at Play” provides increased opportunities for physical activity.The medals recognizes the hard work of the Tamaqua YMCA and Child Development programs, the South Ward Playground Association, St. Luke’s University Health Network, the Tamaqua safety Initiative, the Tamaqua Community Art center and Rural Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC).“We can’t force anyone to be healthy, but Tamaqua can be a community that supports and promotes health,” said Micah Gursky, Tamaqua Council President.“Our early childhood programs promote health; our summer lunch program helps children stay healthy; Tamaqua has great parks and recreational programs; and we even display the MyPlate poster in our employee kitchenette! Tamaqua may be a small town, but we’re a small town that values health. We have great, fresh local produce, a farmer’s market, vegetable stands and lots of outdoor and recreational activities for people of all ages.”Since the program’s inception in 2012, the National League of Cities has awarded a total of 2,729 bronze, silver and gold medals to local elected officials. Tamaqua is one of only 52 communities throughout the United States to receive all five gold medals offered by the NLC.