The Gleason Family YMCA will host a pilot program, called “Healthy Weight and Your Child,” starting Sept. 14 and is currently accepting referrals.

Children ages 7 to 13 that have a body mass index of 95 percent or more are eligible for the program. Children need referrals from a clinician, which includes school nurses, to be considered for the program.

It focuses on behavior change, healthy habits and time spent with parents (including going to the grocery store).

“One of the parents must participate with the child. You have to understand that this is a commitment,” said Mary Beth Gamache, the program's director. “These are going to be families that really understand the importance of this to their children.”

The evidence-based program was designed in Chicago, where all of the Y's chronic disease programs are developed, and has only been offered in 19 other facilities in the country.

“To call ourselves evidence-based, we have to collect data,” said Gamache.

This includes attendance, body mass index measurements and more. Two staff members at the Y will serve as content and activity leaders.

The New Bedford and Fall River YMCAs are offering the program this year, too.

“There's not a lot of youth obesity intervention programs being offered,” said Gamache. “Right now, obesity affects 17 percent of all youth and adolescence in the U.S., which has tripled since three generations ago.”

Those who enroll in the program, which costs $175 for a full year, will also receive a full family membership to the Y. There are 25 sessions over the entire year.

“We always, always offer scholarships and payment plans,” said Gamache. “We are excited to bring people into the program that really feel that their child will be positively impacted by the program.”

To sign up for the program or to ask questions about it, contact Gamache at mgamache@ymcasouthcoast.org.