National wellness grant brings new health resources to Escondido students
SAN DIEGO, Calif., September, 2, 2025 — Only 1 in 4 children in the U.S. gets the recommended amount of daily physical activity, and approximately 1 in 3 are considered overweight or obese[1]. With physical inactivity and mental health challenges on the rise among youth, schools like Reidy Creek Elementary School in Escondido are taking action to create healthier learning environments. To help address those growing needs, the American Heart Association, a global force changing the future of health of all, recently awarded a $2,135 grant to Reidy Creek Elementary School in Escondido through its Kids Heart Challenge™ and American Heart Challenge™ programs.
“Every child should have the opportunity to grow up strong, healthy and ready to thrive,” said Joanne Olson, Region Vice President, School Engagement for the American Heart Association. “These grants help make that vision a reality by supporting school initiatives that teach healthy habits early and empower students with lifesaving skills. By instilling a culture of health in youth today, we’re building a healthier future for everyone.”
Reidy Creek Elementary School received the award as part of the latest round of funding from the Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge grant program, which supports projects that help increase physical activity, improve mental well-being or provide tools for emergency preparedness. Through these funds, Reidy Creek will be able to purchase additional games and implement a variety of engaging activities for its Recess Reimagined program, launching this year. This initiative is designed to optimize the recess experience for all students, fostering holistic development by supporting physical health, social-emotional learning, and cognitive growth.
“We are incredibly grateful for the American Heart Association’s support,” said Andy McGuire, Incoming Superintendent, Escondido Union School District. “These funds will help us provide students with expanded opportunities to play, collaborate, and thrive, reinforcing Reidy Creek Elementary’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals in a dynamic and inclusive environment and allow us to further our commitment to improving the health of our students, staff and school community.”
Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge are rooted in proven science and reach millions of students each year. Participants and their families learn how to eat smart, manage stress, avoid tobacco and vaping, recognize the signs of heart attack and stroke and more. They’re also introduced to Hands-Only CPR, a lifesaving skill that children as young as nine can learn and administer in the event of witnessing a sudden cardiac arrest.
To be eligible for a school wellness grant, schools must be registered for the Kids Heart Challenge or American Heart Challenge and complete the program. The next opportunity to apply will open later this school year. Schools can register now for the 2025–26 school year by visiting heart.org/getstarted.
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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.
For Media Inquiries:
Erika Cervantes-Aarons: Erika.Cervantes-Aaro@heart.org
Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
