BlueCross BlueShield introduces grants for healthy schools

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The BlueCross BlueShield of S.C. Foundation has established Wellness Inspired School Environment grants to help schools create healthier environments. The grant funding is open to all public and private nonprofit schools in South Carolina serving grades K-12. One application from each school will be considered.

The foundation is partnering with the Alliance for a Healthier Generation and its healthy schools program framework that develops and monitors progress toward a wellness action plan, according to a news release. Applicants can use the funds to implement activities from these wellness action plans.

Schools can apply for grants ranging from $2,000 to $8,000 to support items based on the six evidence-based modules:

• School Health and Safety Policies and Environment.
• Health Education.
• Physical Education and Other Physical Activity Programs.
• Nutrition Services.
• Health Promotion for Staff.
• Family and Community Involvement.

“Schools often want to do more to improve student well-being, but may not have the resources to do so. We want to make the healthy choice the easy choice, so we are supporting healthy school environments, which encourage and promote physical activity and healthy eating,” said Erika Kirby, foundation executive director, in the release. “This supports our long-term goal of improving the health and well-being of South Carolina’s children.”

Applications are being accepted and schools can learn more online.