Each year the U.S. Conference of Mayors in partnership with the American Beverage Foundation for a Healthy America provides grants to support mayors who are proactively working to fight childhood obesity in their cities. This year, Providence, R.I., Mayor Jorge Elorza was honored with 2nd place in the Medium City category in recognition of his "Eat Play Learn PVD" initiative.

This innovative initiative combats two major diet-related public health problems affecting low-income children in Providence: hunger and obesity. It will expand and broaden youth recreation programming city wide, including providing greater access for the target population to summer camps, summer meals and learning opportunities that will address both childhood obesity and school readiness.

The beverage industry is proud to support the great work of America's mayors to drive meaningful solutions to the challenge of childhood obesity. We know that by working together we can make a difference and bring about real and lasting change.

Congratulations to Mayor Elorza and the city of Providence! Learn more about the Childhood Obesity Prevention Awards here.