Mercedes-Benz fights against obesity in the U.S.

$10.5 million grant from MBUSA to support Laures sports
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Mercedes-Benz boosts support of the youngsters that are at risk, by granting $10.5 million to Laureus Sport For Good Foundation USA. MBUSA made the announcement during a health event also attended by the First Lady of the United States, Michelle Obama.

Obesity has been an issue for centuries. In 2012, in the U.S., more than one in three kids was overweight or even obese, a rate that has doubled for children and quadrupled for teenagers, for the past 30 years. Mercedes-Benz is fighting against the alarming tendency and got a partner for this war. MBUSA has joined forces with the PHA (Partnership for a Healthier America) to eradicate the epidemic.

MBUSA LaureusAt the 2015 PHA Building a Healthier Future Summit in Washington, D.C., Mercedes-Benz announced a $10.5 million grant to Laureus Sport for Good Foundation USA, the leading organization that uses the sport to tackle society’s troublesome challenges.

The major event is a gathering of health experts, politicians, business and industry leaders, all committed to putting an end to childhood obesity. The NBA Hall of Fame Alonzo Mourning, a spokesman for Laureus, also attended the Summit in Washington.

MBUSA and Laureus USA have been partners in supporting the youngsters at risk to get involved in sports, ever since 2012. Their joint effort materialized into in-school and after-school programs that promote movement and sportsmanship. 140 000 kids across America have already been reached by the program. Their goal is to annually impact 125 000 more, by 2017.

MBUSA Laureus“Investing in our youth and giving back to our local communities are integral to the culture at Mercedes-Benz USA,” stated Stephen Cannon, president and CEO of MBUSA. “Our ongoing collaboration and commitment to Laureus USA combines our passion for community and sports in a way that is making an impact. We look forward to continuing helping kids across the country build healthier futures.”

“The Laureus USA family and organization as a whole is honored and humbled to receive an incredibly generous grant from our dedicated and long-time supporter, Mercedes-Benz USA,” said Edwin Moses, Chairman of Laures USA. “These funds will help continue our efforts to build and support sustainable, resilient organizations that can impact the health, education and social outcomes of children nationwide.”