LANSING – State Representative Mark Meadows (D-East Lansing) today announced that he was a winner in a walk contest sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan in which legislators competed for money for a school or non-profit organization in their district.
Meadows participated in Michigan's National Walk @ Lunch DayState Government Challenge, sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Prizes were awarded to legislators who walked the farthest. The top three House walkers and the top three Senate walkers each received a Healthy Lifestyle Wellness Grant for a school or non-profit organization of his or her choice to promote health or wellness in their district.
After walking 335 miles, Meadows earned $1,000 for "Walk Michigan" and "Healthy Snacks for Kids," two programs offered by Meridian Township's Department of Parks and Recreation.
"The 'Walk Michigan' and 'Healthy Snacks for Kids' programs are vital programs that encourage our kids to make healthy life decisions," Meadows said. "I am pleased that I had the opportunity to help raise funds for these programs because their benefits to our community are boundless."
"Walk Michigan" is a program that offers adults, children, senior citizens and families an opportunity to register to win a three-night, four-day trip for two to Mackinac Island on Labor Day weekend and to participate in the Bridge Walk on Labor Day. Participants receive an entry into the drawing for every 30 minute workout session including walking, jogging, biking, in-line skating, etc. between now and July 31. The program is free for participants.
Meridian Township operates a free drop-in recreation program for lower income children ages 6-14 at Snell-Towar Recreation Center in Meridian Township. A total of 60 children participate daily in a variety of programs, activities and field trips throughout the free seven-week summer program. The "Healthy Snacks for Kids" program would add a nutrition component including daily snacks, cooking and food preparation instruction, introduction to new foods, and a trip to the Farmers' Market.