How ExxonMobil and MD Anderson are charting a new path for community health

Be Well™ Baytown, a collaboration between ExxonMobil and The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, is making lasting health changes in Baytown, Texas.
The initiative offers resources for healthy eating, active living, sun safety, tobacco-free living and preventive care.
We’ve supported the program through a $10 million donation and plan to expand to other communities in Texas.

Article

2 min read

• Jan. 13, 2025

Be Well^TM Baytown is setting a new standard for community health in Baytown, Texas.

Launched in 2016 by The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center and ExxonMobil, Be Well Baytown mobilizes community partners who teach and promote healthy practices and lifestyle choices to residents.

The 10-year initiative, supported by a $10 million ExxonMobil grant, aims to reduce the risk of cancer and other chronic diseases across five key areas: healthy eating, active living, sun safety, tobacco-free living and preventive care.

To date, the program has made a significant impact.

8 million pounds of healthy food distributed

Nearly 8 million pounds of healthy food distributed to residents, enhancing nutrition.
20,000 students and staff trained

Close to 20,000 high school and college students and staff educated about tobacco-free living through interactive online modules and text messaging.
6,000 cancer screenings provided

About 6,000 cancer screenings provided for early detection and treatment.
94 sun protection mechanisms installed

54 sunshades and 40 sunscreen dispensers installed in public spaces.

“I knew this program was making an impact when a group of 4^th graders visited my booth at a community event, telling me everything they learned about sun safety, starting in kindergarten. I was so encouraged by what they shared.”

Lori Rumfield

Healthy Community Special Projects Specialist and Community Advocate

Goose Creek Consolidated Independent School District

Collaboration is critical to the success of this program. In addition to ExxonMobil and MD Anderson, other organizations involved include:

The City of Baytown
Goose Creek Consolidated Independent School District
Lee College
Hearts and Hands of Baytown
United Way of Greater Baytown and Chambers County

"Be Well Baytown has improved health and well-being for residents in our community,” says ExxonMobil Baytown Refinery Manager Glenn Hayes. “Each year we see progress. We’re excited about the benefits in Baytown and hope this program inspires expansion to more communities."

For more information visit: MDAnderson.org/BeWellCommunities

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Be Well Baytown is part of the Be Well Communities^TM initiative, MD Anderson’s local program for cancer prevention and control, working with communities to promote wellness and stop cancer before it starts.