According to a study by the University of Alabama Birmingham, the number of people in Alabama diagnosed with diabetes increased by 50 percent over the period from 1994 to 2002.

Health is a major concern for all Alabamians and Dallas County’s Summer Feeding program is an important component in health education.

In January, the commission voted to continue the Summer Feeding program, a federal program administered by the county.

During its meeting Monday, commissioners heard a report on the success of the program, which is an extension of the public schools’ free lunch program.

Children continue to receive a nutritious meal during the summer at predetermined sites.

Susan Wood, who heads the program, thanked the commission for its support.

She added that Vaughan Community Health Services also helped with the effort by

providing a wealth of educational material.

In educating the community and providing health

screenings, this Summer Feeding program does more than just provide a meal.

It gives participants the opportunity to make important decision about their lifestyles, which can impact their health.

Adopting a healthy lifestyle means eating right and exercising.

Residents of Dallas County now have two walking trails that can help with the effort.

Programs such as this one further help the cause. Thanks to the commission, Wood and Vaughan Community Health Services for implementing the program.