UFood Restaurant Group Inc. announced that it created a cause marketing partnership with HealthCorps Inc., a New York–based national nonprofit organization founded by heart surgeon and Daytime Emmy Award–winning talk show host Dr. Mehmet Oz. The program will generate contributions to support the HealthCorps high school education program that provides experiential learning in nutrition, physical activity, and mental strength in 42 high schools in 12 states. Watch UFood’s video news release below

“UFood is committed to offering a difference in how Americans of all ages make their food choices to help turn the tide on the obesity crisis that is adversely affecting young people in underserved communities,” says George Naddaff, chairman and CEO of UFood Grill. “HealthCorps is a perfect partner for UFood because their unique model of empowerment and education is clearly the pathway toward a healthier future and aligns with our mission to provide healthy alternatives in fast food.”

To initiate the program, UFood will make a financial contribution to HealthCorps and will launch an in-store program allowing consumers to make point-of-sale contributions at the company’s corporate locations, as well as at participating franchise locations. Additionally, UFFC will contribute a portion of sales from a select meal choice endorsed by HealthCorps for its nutritional benefits.

“HealthCorps is thrilled to partner with a leading-edge restaurant group like UFood Grill that has created a unique and healthful fast food menu at a time when consumers are looking for smarter choices,” says Michelle Bouchard, president of HealthCorps. “Their support will enable us to reach more young people with our experiential learning program as we work to activate American students and families to fight obesity and become health agents of change for their communities.”