The American Heart Association and the National Football League (NFL) have awarded NFL PLAY 60 grants to 164 schools in 44 states, aiming to boost physical activity among students and combat rising obesity rates. This announcement comes as new research published in the American Heart Association's flagship journal, Circulation, reveals that obesity among youth increased by approximately 30% between 1999 and 2023, while severe obesity rose by 50%. The grants are part of a $350,000 annual investment from the NFL through its collaboration with the American Heart Association, marking the third round of NFL PLAY 60 grants in 2026.
The grants are distributed through the Association's school-based programs, Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge, and help schools meet critical wellness needs identified by educators. Funds can be used for equipment, recess enhancements, inclusive physical education, and well-being resources. Fewer than 1 in 4 children in the United States currently get enough physical activity, according to the release. NFL PLAY 60 encourages children to be physically active for at least 60 minutes a day, aligning with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans.
“Children spend so much of their time in the classroom, which makes schools powerful allies in helping them build lifelong healthy habits,” said Nancy Brown, chief executive officer of the American Heart Association. “With support from the NFL, we're proud to give schools additional opportunities to promote physical activity and student well-being so more students have a chance to live longer, healthier lives.” Megan Mendoza, senior manager of social responsibility at the NFL, added, “For many kids, staying active isn’t about interest. It's about access to the right space, equipment and time to move. These grants help remove barriers so more students - even those who might otherwise sit on the sidelines - get the chance to jump in and play.”
The impact of these grants is significant given the rising obesity rates and low physical activity levels among youth. By providing resources directly to schools, the initiative addresses a key barrier to physical activity: access. Schools receiving grants can enhance their physical education programs, purchase new equipment, and create more inclusive environments for all students, including those with disabilities. This aligns with national health goals and could help reverse the trend of increasing obesity rates. More information on NFL PLAY 60 resources and grant opportunities can be found at heart.org/NFLPLAY60.
The American Heart Association, supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, funds groundbreaking research and advocates for public health. The NFL PLAY 60 platform, now in its 20th year, empowers millions of youth to get physically active for at least 60 minutes a day. This collaboration between a leading health organization and a major sports league underscores the importance of partnerships in addressing public health challenges. With these grants, 164 schools across 44 states will have new opportunities to foster healthier habits among students, potentially improving long-term health outcomes and reducing healthcare costs associated with obesity-related conditions.
