April 14, 2014

The Honorable Mark R. Warner

475 Russell Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
Dear Senator Warner:
My name is Melissa Chong from Blacksburg, Virginia. I am writing to ask that you consider
co-sponsoring a bill, H.R. 2178 - FIT Kids Act. I am a junior at Virginia Tech; I am majoring
in Human Nutrition, Foods, and Exercise. After graduation, I will be pursuing my dream to
become a Registered Dietitian.
You might be interested to know that childhood obesity is a national epidemic. 1 of 3
children in America is obese. According to the National Survey of Childrens Health, 22% of
Virginia youth between ages of 10 to 17 are obese. The increasing rate of childhood obesity
could lead to higher risks of diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, musculoskeletal disorders and
cancer among children. Research also shown that, children who lack of physical activity
didnt perform well academically.
If the FIT Kids Act becomes a law, states will receive grants for implementing programs that
promotes physical activity, health and nutrition education. This bill also provides equal
opportunities for children with disabilities to engage in physical activity and learn about
health and nutrition. In these ways, our children have a head start on a healthy life.
Children are the future of our world. By co-sponsoring H.R. 2178 - FIT Kids Act, the rate of
childhood obesity could be lowered through physical activity and education. I appreciate
your help and hope to hear from you soon.
Thank you for your time and considering my request.
Sincerely,
Melissa Chong
209 Reynolds Street,
Blacksburg, VA 24060.
571-455-9663
mwc2559@vt.edu