FARMINGTON — The Healthy Community Coalition has been awarded a grant for $2 million over three years for physical and nutritional education programs in collaboration with RSU 9 in Farmington, RSU 58 in Phillips and Stratton Elementary School.

The award is from the U.S. Department of Education through the Carol M. White Physical Education Program, Franklin Community Health Network President/CEO Rebecca Arsenault said. The Coalition is an affiliate of FCHN.

The grant is one of 67 awarded nationwide to schools and community-based organizations that plan to implement comprehensive, integrated physical activity and nutrition programs for students.

Through these programs, it is expected that students will develop an appreciation for lifelong healthy nutrition and physical education habits, and make progress toward meeting their state standards for physical education.

“This new funding will allow the community and schools to work together to create a gold standard program of physical activity opportunities and nutrition education at nine area elementary schools, one middle school and two high schools,” Healthy Community Coalition’s Executive Director Jennifer McCormack said.

RSU 9 includes the towns of Chesterville, Farmington, Industry, New Sharon, New Vineyard, Starks, Temple, Vienna, Weld and Wilton.

SAD 58 includes the towns of Phillips, Avon, Strong and Kingfield.

There will be more after-school and summer programs and collaboration among existing projects such as 5-2-1-0 Let’s Go.

“It is the mission of FCHN to work cooperatively with others in the community to achieve the highest level of health and wellness possible,” Arsenault said. “This grant will demonstrate the ability of HCC and schools taking action together to teach approximately 3,000 students the importance of developing healthy lifestyles, which are also key components toward improving student engagement and achievement. School nutrition and physical activity related policies will also be reviewed and revised to address the highest standards possible for students.”

The Healthy Community Coalition, founded in 1989, is one of the oldest health coalitions in the country. Its mission is to improve the well-being of all people in Greater Franklin County and neighboring towns using a coordinated public health approach of education, promotion and outreach. 

The Coalition offers health screenings, health information, programs and events to support healthy lifestyles that prevent disease and improve the quality of life.

For more information, visit www.fchn.org/hcc.

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