Huron public library wins Fitbit grant

HURON — The Greater Midwest Region of the National Network of Libraries of Medicine announced the Huron Public Library as an award recipient of the 2020 Resolve to Stay Active: A Fitbit Kit for Your Community.  The award supports public libraries or other community organizations which serve populations that are underrepresented in biomedical research in providing access to health technology and consumer health resources.
While interest in health-related programs and services has increased, many libraries and other community organizations lack adequate funding to provide health-related materials. The Resolve to Stay Active Fitbit Kits will lower barriers to providing health-related programs and outreach in public libraries and other community organizations.
As part of the award the Library will partner with the City of Huron Get Fit Committee to offer a six week “Get Active, Stay Active” program. This will first be offered to City Employees and their families. This program will begin on Monday and end on April 27. Participants will log their steps and fitness activities. The data will be shared with the Greater Midwest Region of the National Network of Libraries of Medicine. After the program the Library will have the Fitbits available for checkout to the public to use for their personal fitness programs.  

Danyelle Casper, library assistant and a member of the City of Huron Get Fit Committee, is responsible for applying for the Fitbit grant. The grant value is $2,500, and includes brochures and other health handouts along with 20 Fitbit Inspire HR.
Casper’s research discovered that Huron stands at a 28.6% poverty rate compared to the 13.4% national average, and 34% of the Huron population are considered obese compared to the national rate of 28.7%. For every 1,501 people there is one primary care provider. According to the Health Resources & Services Administration (data.HRSA.gov) Beadle County is defined as a Medically Underserviced Area with a score of 59.5 out of 100.  
“Having the Fitbits will enable the citizens of Huron and Beadle County to develop personal health programs which encourages them to be physically active” said Casper.  “The Library is very happy to offer the Fitbits as part of its services.”  
For more information about this program stop by the Huron Public Library or call 353-8530.