Tennessee High Obesity Program (HOP) / Be More Tennessee

The High Obesity Program (HOP) is a cooperative agreement between the (CDC), Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity (DNPAO) and land grant universities serving counties with adult obesity rates of 40% or higher. Through a community-based approach, the project collaborates with community partners to identify local community assets and challenges, develop tailored work plans, and implement policy, systems, and environmental (PSE) change strategies that support healthier lifestyles.  Specifically, the project works to 1) Improve access to healthy foods, 2) Increase opportunities for physical activity, and 3) Implement family health weight programs.

This program started in 2014; since then, the University of Tennessee Extension, Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) has received three cycles of HOP funding. In the current funding cycle (2023-2028), the Tennessee HOP initiative, Be More Tennessee, is implemented in seven rural Tennessee counties (highlighted in red in the map below): Clay, Crockett, Decatur, Hardeman, Haywood, Hancock, and Henderson. Contact your nearest county to learn how to get involved.


Tennessee counties highlighted in red are currently participating in the HOP Program and include Clay, Crockett, Decatur, Hancock, Hardeman, Haywood, and Henderson counties.


People examining vegetables stored in sacks
Nutrition Strategy
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Family exercising
Physical Activity Strategy
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Workout materials on bench - including apple, water bottle, towel, barbells and tennis shoes
Family Healthy Weight Program
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The High Obesity Program is made possible with funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The views expressed in this newsletter do not necessarily reflect the official policies of the CDC or imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.
Learn more about the High Obesity Program (HOP) program