Greater Fall River Partners for a Healthier Community, Inc. announced the launch of Small Worksite Wellness Project on March 15, at the Main Street Cafe and Bakery in Fall River. Partners was funded by the University of Massachusetts-Lowell’s Center for the Promotion of Health in the New England Workplace to conduct a research program to evaluate a new wellness initiative for local small businesses. The $18,249 grant will pay for start-up costs and evaluation to learn what works best to engage employees of small businesses in healthier lifestyles. Business owners with fewer than 25 employees will be invited to participate in a six-month program at no cost that will pay for incentives and provide supports to employers who want to see their employees improve their health status. The program will offer opportunities to engage in fitness programs, nutrition education, smoking cessation, substance abuse prevention, stress management, occupational health and safety, and other specific interventions designed to reduce illness or injury both on and off the job. Resources for the program will be drawn from local organizations who have been engaged with Partners for a Healthier Community, Inc. and the Healthy City Fall River initiative. Click here for 30 second video.  For more information about the program, contact Worksite Wellness Coordinator Angela Bannister at 774-400-4466. (Some photos by Phil Devitt, editor of the Fall River Spirit)

(Top row) Worksite Wellness Coordinator Angela Bannister joins Flint Merchant Association president Carlos Cesar, UMass Extension Nutrition Education Program project leader Pat Bebo and Fall River Office of Economic Development finance director Steve Parr for the press event at the Main Street Cafe and Bakery. (Middle row, left) Cafe owner and employer Mary Mehri is interviewed by Fall River Chamber of Commerce membership director Jay Pateakos and Herald News photographer Dave Souza and reporter Deborah Allard. (Middle row, left) Mr. Cesar and Healthy City Fall River coordinator Dr. David Weed share a light moment with Ms. Mehri. (Bottom row, left and center) Ms. Bannister talks with Ms. Mehri and Mr. Cesar about what the program can do for employers. (Bottom row, right) Ms. Mehri is interviewed by Fall River Government Television reporter Pamela Martins.