Safe Routes to School in California

70% of young Californians ages 17 to 24 could not join the military if they wanted to. One of the leading reasons is obesity—nearly a third of young adults nationwide would not qualify for military service [view our motion graphic] because they are too overweight. Helping children achieve a healthy weight is crucial for national security.

This fact sheet offers tips for how California’s educators, community leaders and policymakers can strengthen walking and biking options and reduce childhood obesity statewide.