Sugar Free Kids Maryland was thrilled to kick off 2017 by adding 1199SEIU to its leadership team. The local chapter of the nation’s largest healthcare union is expected to strengthen the momentum that Sugar Free Kids has generated over the past three years.

The key to this new partnership is 1199SEIU Political Organizer Ricarra Jones, who has been with the union for over 10 years. In her role, Jones has lobbied for issues ranging from marriage equality to ensuring higher education opportunities for Marylanders. Her primary territories include Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Prince George’s County and Montgomery County.

Jones is motivated every day by being able to see tangible results in her work. “The work we do has a real effect on the lives of workers in this state,” she said. “You can actually see the outcomes and how their lives have been impacted.”

The partnership was an easy one to make, both for Sugar Free Kids and 1199SEIU. There are now six organizations leading the coalition, with more than 200 diverse health, faith, youth and community organizations as members.

“We are really excited about teaming with Sugar Free Kids Maryland,” said Jones. “The coalition’s ability to bring together such a diverse group of people and organizations to fight the harmful effects of sugar, especially in Baltimore City is remarkable. We share the same goals of passing local and state legislation in order to ensure kids have healthier options, with a strong focus on neighborhoods that need it the most.”