April 30, 2012 - The groundbreaking multi-part documentary series, the Weight of the Nation, debuts May 14 and 15 as just one part of the effort to raise public awareness on the growing health, economic and social issues associated with the obesity epidemic.

The project also includes nationwide dissemination of screening kits, which include the complete DVD box set with companion discussion guides, to more than 40,000 community-based organizations, as well as an initiative to provide healthy eating options at school, a robust online and social media presence and a book.

To facilitate community action, HBO and partners including the foundation began distributing 40,000 screening kits to community-based organizations and coalitions on April 24. The kits, which consist of 14 films, discussion guides in English and Spanish, and tips and supplemental materials for hosting screenings, provide essential tools to catalyze and support local efforts in communities that combat obesity across the country. These kits will also be available for downloading at hbo.com/theweightofthenation.

May 1 marks Weight of the Nation Day awareness events in 12 cities, including Austin, Texas.