CHPA’s Health In Hand Foundation kicks off back-to-school health campaigns

The Consumer Healthcare Products Association’s Health In Hand Foundation, in collaboration with Young Minds Inspired, is kicking off two national back-to-school health education campaigns focused on sun safety and oral health.

YMI, a provider of free educational outreach programs for learners of all ages, is partnering with HIHF to deliver these initiatives to schools across the country. With support from CHPA member companies Kenvue and Colgate-Palmolive, and in collaboration with The Skin Cancer Foundation and the American Dental Association, the campaigns aim to empower students and families with essential self-care knowledge.

Developed in collaboration with The Skin Cancer Foundation and supported by Kenvue, the sun safety program will reach 450,000 elementary and middle school students and their families in the United States about the importance of practicing sun-safe behaviors. These include wearing sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, seeking shade and covering up with sun-protective clothing.

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The program features teacher guidance and classroom activities to reinforce sun safety, as well as a bilingual take-home letter (English and Spanish) for parents and caregivers with tips and reminders to protect children’s skin from UV exposure. The digital content will educate and increase awareness about the effects of UV rays on the skin and the importance of consistent sun protection.

“We’re excited to partner with Health In Hand to empower teachers, students and parents with sun safety education. Childhood sunburns can significantly increase the chance of developing melanoma later in life. By promoting sun-protective behaviors—like wearing sunscreen, seeking shade and using sun-safe clothing—we’re helping families build lifelong habits that safeguard their health,” said Becky Kamowitz, executive director, The Skin Cancer Foundation.

In addition to sun safety, Health In Hand also developed a targeted educational campaign focused on oral health education. In collaboration with the ADA and supported by Kenvue and Colgate-Palmolive, this effort targets 750,000 elementary school students and their families in rural communities and dental deserts across the United States, including Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, Montana, Tennessee, Alaska, North Dakota, Pennsylvania and New Jersey. 

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