In the transition of 2022 and 2023, the YMCA of San Benito County initiated the Healthy Family Home program in partnership with Hollister Pediatrics. Sponsored by The Health Trust in April 2023, this program is not just a wellness intervention but a transformative journey toward a healthier lifestyle for the current 64 active families who have plunged into this 12-month program.
Open to low-income families who qualify; the program provides several components and opportunities that families agree to participate in as they initiate the program. These required activities serve as toolkits, motivating family involvement and helping them learn to make a healthy lifestyle a habit.
Nicole Shelton, MSHS, PA-C, Physician Associate at Hollister Pediatrics, emphasizes the urgency of addressing pediatric obesity.
“Pediatric Obesity is on the rise for a variety of reasons: more sedentary lifestyles, increased screen time, and decreased PE and recess times at schools, to name a few. In order to change the course of a child’s health, it starts at home,” said Shelton.
“Working together, we have created a program that does just that,” Shelton continued. “The YMCA Healthy Family Home program is tackling pediatric health head-on. I have seen a positive impact not only on the weight of my patients but their labs, their confidence, their mental health, and their family’s health. Hollister Pediatrics is grateful to work with the YMCA on this endeavor.”
Families engaged in the Healthy Family Home program are expected to meet with a Health & Wellness coach at least twice, required to actively use the facility at least eight times per month, attend a minimum of four family nights per year, and participate in two wellness/nutrition workshops, which include healthy cooking demonstrations. Additionally, they are expected to conduct pre- and post-self-evaluations, complete quarterly family surveys, and attend bi-monthly checkups with their healthcare provider.
Though the program does include a set of specific guidelines and requirements, it is much more. It’s a community-driven, family-focused approach to health and wellness. Thus far, families in the program have reported a significant shift in their daily habits. 58% have reported an increase in veggie and fruit intake. There has also been a 62% decrease in screen time, a 70% increase in physical activity, and an overall reduction in fast-food intake. Blood pressures have reportedly decreased, families have collectively lost weight, their BMIs have improved, and some kids are no longer considered pre-diabetic. Such results have made this pilot program successful; however, what makes this program truly stand out are the testimonies from those active families!
Veronica Guerrero and Emma Guerrero, a mother-daughter duo referred to the program by Shelton, began their journey in February 2023. For them, the program has been a catalyst for change, keeping them active in all aspects of life. Veronica said, “This program has given us the opportunity to explore many of the resources available to us.” She also shared that the knowledge gained has not only transformed their exercise routine, thanks to sessions with Health & Wellness Coach Sabas but also opened doors to a supportive community within the YMCA. What is their most memorable experience? Running their first 5k is a significant achievement they credit to the program. Emma said, “I liked running with my mom and my friends. It was so much fun!” Beyond the physical changes, the Guerreros have gained friendships, encouragement from staff, and a sense of belonging that makes the YMCA feel like home.
Shortly after the Guerreros, the Garcia family was referred to the program by Hollister Pediatrics, Pediatrician Dr. Nguyen, and embarked on their journey in March 2023. The program became a medium for them to encourage their kids to exercise. Vanessa Garcia, the mother, said, “Even though there’s a long road ahead of us, a lot of hard work and determination, I believe this program will set us up for a lifelong healthy transformation.”
Their favorite aspects of the program include workshops, family fun nights, and the joy of working out together.
Health & Wellness Coach and Personal Trainer Sabas Gonzalez said, “My favorite part about coaching these families is seeing their motivation and progress. It’s rewarding to be able to guide these families and inspiring to see them work toward their goals, coming into the gym and sweating it out.”
The program’s objectives align seamlessly with the testimonials the YMCA of San Benito County has heard. They have seen that the program’s success extends far beyond the numbers – it’s the sense of motivation and community established through shared accomplishments. This program’s objectives represent a commitment to families’ well-being, a pledge to provide the necessary tools for growth, and a determination to extend this impact to even more households.
As the YMCA of San Benito County celebrates the past year’s successes, they look forward with optimism and anticipation. They aim to welcome 50-75 additional families annually and extend the program to neighboring counties and branches within the Central Coast YMCA association. They aspire to maintain financial backing to ensure low-income San Benito County families make lasting, healthy changes.
Offering advice to incoming families, both the Guerreros and Garcias emphasize patience when starting the program. “Take this opportunity if you can; give your wellness a shot. Go with a good attitude, open mind, and a positive mindset. The Y will help you along the way to meet your goals,” said Veronica.
In Vanessa’s words, “Welcome to the first steps toward a healthy lifestyle.” This simple yet profound statement encapsulates the essence of the Healthy Family Home program. It’s an invitation to embark on a transformative journey, a promise of support, and an assurance that positive change begins with those initial steps.