The National Football League (NFL) and 60 partners are teaming up with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to make $35 million in grants available to schools in need of help providing students with access to nutritious meals.

"Three in five students – more than 30 million children – rely on the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program for one to two meals per day, however according to a 2014 survey, 88% of schools reported lacking at least one piece of equipment they needed in order to serve healthier foods,” said the NFL’s and the National Dairy Council’ (NDC) n-school nutrition and physical activity program, Fuel Up to Play 60, in a statement.

The $35 million in grants are intended to help schools better meet national nutrition standards and server children healthier meals to promote a culture of healthy eating.

Fuel Up to Play 60 was created in 2008 through a partnership of the USDA, NFL, NDC and GENYOUth "to help encourage today's youth to lead healthier lives.”

The money will be providing to states and will then be distributed to districts determined to be in the most need; [s]chools can apply for USDA funding through their state, or for funds from Fuel Up directly through the organization's website.”

Grants will be specifically awarded and used for strictly purchasing and replacing equipment.

"Equipment may include large and small items including utility carts, utensils, large-capacity food processors, industrial scales, steamers, freezers etc. Infrastructure elements may include building needs related to physical space, electricity, plumbing, ventilation and other remodeling needs,” the statement said.

Read more about applying for funding here. 

Article by Nicole Gorman, Education World Contributor

2/8/2016