Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Donna Shalala announced last week that $1 million would be awarded to four community-based projects and one national campaign to help young girls. “With these grants, communities can work together to help young girls stay healthy, stay active, and make the most of their lives,” she said.
The community programs work to prevent teen pregnancy, substance abuse, and to build self-esteem among girls age 9-14. Girl Power!, a national public health campaign, also educates girls about eating disorders and helps them increase their confidence in athletics, school and other activities.
Studies show that girls are more likely to have problems than boys during adolescence, expressed in higher rates of depression, eating disorders, poor performance in school and sports, and risky behaviors such as drug abuse and unsafe sex.
