The American Heart Association and the National Football League (NFL) have awarded NFL PLAY 60 grants to 164 schools in 44 states, aiming to combat rising obesity rates and low physical activity among American children. The grants are part of a $350,000 annual investment from the NFL through its collaboration with the American Heart Association, supporting school-based programs Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge.
According to new research published in the American Heart Association's flagship journal, Circulation, obesity among youth increased by approximately 30% between 1999 and 2023, while severe obesity rose 50%. Fewer than 1 in 4 children in the United States currently get enough physical activity, highlighting the urgent need for interventions in school settings.
“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.”
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. The grants help schools meet critical wellness needs identified by educators, from equipment and recess enhancements to inclusive physical education and well-being resources.
“For many kids, staying active isn’t about interest. It's about access to the right space, equipment and time to move,” said Megan Mendoza, senior manager of social responsibility, NFL. “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.”
This marks the third round of NFL PLAY 60 grants awarded in 2026. More information on NFL PLAY 60 resources and grant opportunities can be found at heart.org/NFLPLAY60. The initiative has been empowering millions of youth to get physically active for at least 60 minutes a day for 20 years, supported by the NFL’s 32 clubs and partners.
