STEPS to a Healthier Cleveland is a federal program to fight chronic diseases of diabetes, obesity, and asthma by addressing physical inactivity, poor nutrition and tobacco use. Cleveland received $1 million in 2004 and $1.5 million in 2005 which it plans to use for programs in the following areas:

• Nutrition
• Asthma education
• Diabetes resources and education
• Safe routes to school

STEPS also has several school-based initiatives: In 2005-06, seven K-8 schools and three high schools in the Cleveland Municipal School District were designated Wellness Schools. Also, the Motivating Youth Through Marathoning involved 60-80 inactive kids in physical activity to earn 'miles' in the Cleveland Marathon (the reward was being invited to run the marathon's last 1.2 miles to the finish). 

At the same time, budget woes for the Cleveland Municipal School District are affecting the nutrition portion of the Steps project. OSU Extension has made progress in bringing more fresh fruits and veggies into the schools, but staff losses in 2006 included nutritionists who helped champion this program.

What should be done to stem further losses and maintain the progress?