AIM for CHangE Overview
Program Overview
Cycle 1
In 2018, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention awarded Mississippi State University Extension Service $5.5 million as one of 15 High Obesity Program (HOP) grantees. Mississippi HOP, locally referred to as AIM for CHangE, served 9 Mississippi counties with an adult obesity rate of 40% or greater: Sharkey, Washington, Issaquena, Sunflower, Humphreys, Holmes, Quitman, Leflore, and Noxubee. We worked with local stakeholders who wanted to improve the health of their neighborhoods by making healthy lifestyles more accessible.
Cycle 2
In 2023, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) renewed its support for Mississippi State University Extension Service, awarding $4.4 million in additional funding to build upon the progress made in the first cycle.
In this second cycle, AIM for CHangE is expanding its efforts across Bolivar, Kemper, Claiborne, Yazoo, Coahoma, Washington, Sunflower, Humphreys, Noxubee, Sharkey, and Holmes counties. This phase focuses on policy, systems, and environmental changes to drive lasting community impact.
Our vision, mission, and values remain steadfast:
Our vision is for a healthy Mississippi that embraces active living and promotes food access.
Our mission is to prevent and reduce obesity using a combination of evidence-based strategies; a policy, systems, and environmental approach; and multi-sectoral, community-led partnerships.
We value collaboration, transparency, and personal agency.
News
MISSISSIPPI STATE, Miss. -- A pilot program designed to increase food pantries’ capacity to provide health-related foods and services recently completed its initial classes.
STARKVILLE, Miss. -- As the holidays approach, consider three ways to share the joys of the season by supporting local food pantries. Gifts of money, time and food items are all welcome.
STARKVILLE, Miss. -- An award-winning program within the Mississippi State University Extension Service will welcome a new leader July 1.
Success Stories
The StoryWalk and colorful word art now installed in downtown Belzoni are giving Rosemary Williams a new opportunity for the children she cares for at Rosemary’s Daycare and Learning Center.
Imagine what Mississippi might look like if everyone had access to healthy foods. The state could set an example for other rural states in using existing resources, collaborating with officials and stakeholders, and creating solutions that have measurable impacts for individuals and families.
When teachers and administrators at Leland School Park began taking steps to install a school garden in 2019, they had no idea they would get a first-of-its-kind outdoor classroom.
