Grant Awarded for New Milford Residents Can Save Lives

New Milford, CONN.—A grant awarded to the Regional YMCA of Western Connecticut from Connecticut Community Foundation allows qualifying residents of New Milford access to the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP).

· The YMCA’s DPP is a community-based lifestyle improvement program for adults with prediabetes. Its purpose is to empower adults with lasting lifestyle changes that will improve their overall health and reduce their chance of developing type 2 diabetes.

· The year-long lifestyle program intervention begins with 16 weekly sessions and then 9 monthly sessions. All 25 sessions are facilitated by a YMCA trained life coach and small group of 8 to 10 participants.

This grant has enabled the Y to effectively address gaps in care and reach more people. Through the YMCA’s close partnerships with the Western Connecticut Health Network and the community, the DPP is launching a mid-day and evening program at New Milford Hospital starting in September and will be launching a morning program at the New Milford Senior Center shortly after.

“By offering varying times for the program, we hope to appeal to the residents of New Milford whether they are retired, working full time or part time. People need to know their risk factors and understand that while pre-diabetes is reversible, diabetes is not.” said Maureen Farrell, Director of Community Wellness at the Regional YMCA of Western Connecticut. Studies show unless adults take steps to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes, most will develop this incurable disease within 10 years.

“I really became aware of the poor choices I was making after starting the DPP program. Cheese was my downfall. With the help of the great coaches and friends I’ve made that hold me accountable, I have completely turned my life around.” Jenn, Program Participant, Regional YMCA of Western CT.

Those seeking to learn more about their risk factors should contact Lisa O’Connor, Diabetes Prevention Coordinator at loconnor@regionalymca.org, 203-775-4444 x135 or attend the next “KNOW YOUR NUMBERS” health screening, September 13, 2018 from 2:30 pm to 5:00 pm at New Milford Hospital in the lobby. Screenings are confidential and can help you determine your risks and if you would qualify for the YMCA’s DPP Program. To register for the KYN Screening at New Milford Hospital please contact BONNIE BIRMINGHAM at 860.354.2216.

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About the Regional YMCA of Western Connecticut

The Regional YMCA of Western Connecticut is a charitable, not-for-profit 501(c)(3) community service organization dedicated to building strong kids, strong families, and strong communities through the development of spirit, mind, and body for all. It operates a full service facility in Brookfield and three additional program sites, all of which provide a wide variety of programs and services to the residents of the 22 towns in Greater Danbury and Eastern Putnam County, NY, which we serve. Learn more by visiting www.regionalymca.org or stopping into your local YMCA.

The Y: We're for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.