The American Heart Association and the National Football League award grants nationwide to help promote healthier schools
BUFFALO, N.Y., March 12, 2026 — Physical activity is vital to American students’ physical health and emotional well-being, helping them learn, concentrate and manage stress throughout the school day, yet most youth are not getting enough movement. According to the American Heart Association, only 1 in 4 children ages 6 to 11 are currently getting the recommended 60 minutes of daily physical activity — a statistic that more than doubles for youth ages 12 to 17. To help promote physical movement for students, the American Heart Association and the National Football League (NFL) recently awarded Wales Primary School in East Aurora and Panama Central School in Panama with an NFL PLAY 60™ grant through its Kids Heart Challenge™ and American Heart Challenge™ program.
This year marks the launch of an enhanced grant structure that includes a $350,000 annual funding pool provided by the NFL. It builds on the existing Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge school grant program established by the American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere.
“Creating environments where kids can stay active and feel supported throughout the school day is essential to their success. This grant gives schools in our community meaningful tools to strengthen both physical activity and overall wellbeing,” said Megan Vargulick, executive director of the American Heart Association – Buffalo/Niagara. “We appreciate the NFL’s continued commitment to helping young people build healthy habits, and we’re proud to see that commitment making a direct impact here at home.”
NFL PLAY 60 grants support four key areas identified by schools and educators, including physical activity equipment, FLAG football, recess enhancements and inclusive physical education, and well-being resources. Wales Primary School received a Physical Activity grant in the amount of $2,500 and Panama Central School received an Active Recess grant in the amount of $500.
“Receiving this grant from the American Heart Association is a tremendous boost for our school. Our students are our priority and being able to offer them more opportunities helps them grow and fosters a healthy relationship with fitness and movement.” said Amber Klein, Kids Heart Challenge coordinator and physical education teacher at Wales Primary School. “We are excited to use these funds to enhance our equipment in the gym and offer a larger variety of activities for our students.”
“My fellow faculty, as well as our students, at Panama Central School give so much every day and having resources that support our well-being directly makes a real difference,” said Kelsey Powers, Kids Heart Challenge coordinator and health & physical education teacher at Panama Central School. “We are excited to use these funds to build a healthier, more supportive school culture for both teachers and students!”
“For two decades, NFL PLAY 60 has been committed to helping kids lead healthier, more active lives, and this year’s expanded grant program reflects that commitment in an even larger way,” said Megan Mendoza, Senior Manager of Social Responsibility, NFL. “We’re proud to work with the American Heart Association to give schools across the country the tools and resources they need to inspire movement, strengthen well‑being and ensure that every student has the opportunity to thrive.”
NFL PLAY 60 grant applications are accepted year-round and another group of grant recipients will be announced in April. Information on NFL PLAY 60 resources and available grant opportunities can be found online at heart.org/NFLPLAY60.
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
NFL PLAY 60 is the League’s national youth health and wellness platform. For nearly 20 years, the initiative has empowered millions of youth to get physically active for at least 60 minutes a day and provided support for programs and resources so that kids everywhere can lead a healthy lifestyle. Alongside the NFL’s 32 NFL clubs and partners, the PLAY 60 movement will continue to serve and motivate the next generation of youth to get active and PLAY 60. For more information, visit NFL.com/PLAY60.
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
