Orem was just named a Utah Healthy Community by Get Healthy Utah and the Utah League of Cities and Towns. This designation recognizes communities across Utah that do an exemplary job of implementing evidence-based strategies to improve community health. Mayor Young, Council members Jenn Gale, Jeff Lambson, Tom Macdonald, David Spencer, LaNae Millett, and City Manager Brenn Bybee received the award on the city’s behalf.
From the award write-up:
“Orem City is busy doing many things to support health in their community! To support physical activity, the city offers free and low-cost community sports programs for adults and children, addressed active transportation connectivity gaps between key destinations, and adopted an ordinance that requires all new subdivisions to provide sidewalks and lights.
To support access to healthy food, Orem established a farmer’s market that accepts SNAP benefits, actively promotes enrollment in SNAP, WIC, and other food access programs for those in need, and implemented a new worksite wellness strategy around healthy eating among city employees.
Orem City also prioritizes mental health by training first responders on mental health crises and suicide prevention, hosting senior lunch gatherings, and beautifying several social gathering spaces including its local parks.”