In September 2022, Blue Zones Project announced its expansion to Bakersfield with support from Adventist Health, which acquired the project in 2020. This initiative aims to improve health and well-being by enhancing the environments where residents make daily health-altering decisions, such as restaurants, schools, and workplaces. At BZP Bakersfield, 18 eateries now offer 89 Blue Zones dishes, 3,500 students have explored fruits and vegetables through smoothie bike activities, and 4,600 employees have engaged in workplace well-being programs. Since its launch, the program has also passed key initiatives like the Tobacco Retailers License Ordinance and the Complete Streets Ordinance. It has also introduced the All-Ways Safe pedestrian safety campaign in English, Spanish, and Punjabi.

Why We Did It

Blue Zones Projects help communities enhance longevity and well-being by optimizing policies, public spaces, schools, restaurants, worksites, and community engagement. Key initiatives focus on increasing access to healthy food, reducing tobacco use, and promoting workplace well-being, which can lead to lower healthcare costs and improved productivity. In Bakersfield, there was a clear need for healthier food options, safer streets, and effective tobacco control. By addressing these areas, Adventist Health aims to foster a healthier community that aligns with its mission to enhance the quality of life for all.

Topics: Food Security/Nutrition|Substance Use Disorder (SUDs)|Transportation