BERKS COUNTY, PA, Sept. 29, 2025 — Did you know that 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 obese1? As physical inactivity and mental health challenges continue to rise among youth, educators are stepping up to lead change. At Twin Valley Elementary Center, teachers and staff are championing efforts to create a healthier, more supportive learning environment, led by health and physical education teacher and Kids Heart Challenge volunteer Heather McHugh.
To help address those growing needs, the American Heart Association, a global force changing the future of health of all, recently awarded a $2,465 grant to Twin Valley Elementary Center in Elverson 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 Jennifer Litchman-Green, executive director, Greater Philadelphia American Heart Association. “These grants help make that vision a reality by empowering educators to model and teach healthy habits early, while equipping students with lifelong skills. When teachers lead the way, they inspire a culture of health that extends far beyond the classroom.”
Twin Valley Elementary Center 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. The school will use the funds to launch a monthly Staff Wellness Initiative, focusing on mental, physical and emotional health—reinforcing the idea that when teachers thrive, students do, too.
“We are incredibly grateful for the American Heart Association’s support,” said Craig Sell, M.Ed., principal, Twin Valley Elementary. “These funds will help us model wellness for our students as we help improve the well-being of our teachers and staff while creating staff morale and togetherness 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:
TrishBradley:
Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
