In this day of billion dollar bailouts of collapsed financial institutions that have the gall to still send executives on extravagant “retreats,” wouldn’t it be nice to hear good news about how your tax dollars are being spent?  Well, would you believe that there is one single federal program that promotes healthier living for kids, reduces traffic congestion, conserves fuel, and improves air quality?

It is the Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program that was established by Congress in 2005.  With funding through 2009 at a 5-year total that is less than one-tenth of a percent of the recent federal bank bailout, this program provides funding to states to improve the ability of children to safely walk and bike to local schools.  Each state is required to establish a full-time SRTS coordinator who works with state entities to determine how to distribute its money across engineering, educational, and enforcement activities.  Click here to find out how your state was funded.

The Congressional funding also set up a national clearinghouse to develop and disseminate educational materials, provide assistance to states, and coordinate efforts across the states.  The National Center for Safe Routes to School, located at the University of North Carolina, has:

  • A comprehensive online guide for starting a SRTS program in your area
  • Webinars (live and archived) on different aspects of community SRTS programs
  • Online forums for interested parents, community leaders, and policy makers to talk to – and help – each other
  • An extensive FAQ section
  • Loads of additional resources

    • A few weeks ago in a Stand Up & Eat blog, we encouraged you to participate in Walk to School Day.  But healthy, calorie burning habits are more than a one day affair.  Use the links provided in this blog to find out how your federal tax dollars are being used in your state to support safe routes to school.  Then take action using the resources you have already paid for to activate a SRTS program in your local community. 

    There's not a lot you can do to change the financial crisis in this country but getting involved with a SRTS program will help you see how some of your taxes are being used to help make our children and our environment healthier.

    Which would you rather your tax dollars be used for - more financial bailouts or healthy eating and active living programs like SRTS?

     

    Photo source:  www.pedbikeimages.org / Dan Burden