U.S. grants aim at healthier lifestyles for kids

“Many studies have shown that the healthier children are, the better they learn”

Nearly $1 million in federal grants will be given to six metro-east communities to promote healthier, more active lifestyles for children in kindergarten through eighth grade.

The program is designed to encourage kids to walk and bike to school.

The money is part of an $8.3 million grant that will be divided among 112 projects across the state.

Area towns receiving money include: Granite City, Belleville, New Athens, Highland, Maryville and Venice. Each community submitted proposals for projects ranging from sidewalk repairs to educational programs. Read more