The National Association of Chronic Disease Directors (NACDD) and White House Office of Public Engagement recently co-hosted a Thought Leader Discussion: Promoting the White House Challenge to End Hunger and Build Healthy Communities in Washington, DC. Representatives from public health organizations, State Health Departments, academic institutions, healthcare systems, and the private sector convened to discuss new strategies to support the White House National Strategy on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health (National Strategy). The National Strategy aims to end hunger in America and increase healthy eating and physical activity by 2030, so fewer Americans experience diet-related diseases.“The consequences of food insecurity and diet-related diseases are significant, far reaching, and disproportionately impact communities that have historically been underserved,” says NACDD CEO John Robitscher, MPH. “But food insecurity and diet-related diseases are largely preventable, and NACDD is deeply committed to being part of the solution. We envision a world where people reach their full health potential, free from the burdens of chronic disease, and look forward to working with partners to bring this vision to reality.”The National Strategy calls for a “whole-of-government and whole-of-America” approach to addressing these challenges. The strategy identifies ambitious and achievable actions the Biden-Harris Administration will pursue across five pillars: 1. Improving food access and affordability 2. Integrating nutrition and health 3. Empowering all consumers to make and have access to healthy choices 4. Supporting physical activity for all 5. Enhancing nutrition and food security researchSince the National Strategy launched in September 2022, NACDD has been a leader in promoting the strategy, fostering collaboration across multiple public and private sectors, and building the capacity of NACDD Members. The organization has adopted a whole-of-association approach — integrating the five pillars into all of its programs that touch on nutrition, hunger, and/or health.“With support from partners like CDC, the private sector, and community-based organizations, NACDD is committed to advancing evidence-based strategies to promote the health and well-being of the public,” adds Jennie Hefelfinger, MS, Vice President of NACDD’s Center for Advancing Healthy Communities. “By preventing and managing diabetes, heart disease, and obesity, and promoting healthy lifestyles through improved nutrition, physical activity, and health, we can create positive change in our communities.”In addition to the recent White House meeting, the Center for Advancing Healthy Communities hosts a monthly learning series to support group dialogue around the National Strategy’s pillars and share relevant information around the implementation of chronic disease prevention and management/health promotion activities.To learn more, visit the NACDD In Action – National Strategy webpage to view the recordings of past discussions, sign up for future webinars, review resources, and more.For more information on the White House National Strategy on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health, please visit https://bit.ly/458CPZ6.