Shades Cahaba Elementary receives healthy school grant

Shades Cahaba Elementary received a $9,350 grant for its healthy habits.

The grant was presented to the school on Sept. 3. It is part of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama’s Be Healthy School grant program to address childhood obesity. Shades Cahaba Elementary is one of 28 schools in Alabama to receive a grant.

Principal John Lowry introduced the grant to a group of third grade students in P.E., thanking coach Genie Christian for her work applying for the grant.

“This is an opportunity for us to be healthier and be the best Shades Cahaba kids we can be,” Lowry said.

Jeff Adams, community relations manager for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, thanked Shades Cahaba for its efforts to becoming a healthier school.

“Last year I had the privilege of receiving an application for a grant from your coach,” Adams said.

Rep. David Faulkner also congratulated the school and students, reminding them to stay active and healthy.

“I’m hoping to see you in Montgomery next year,” Faulkner said, noting the annual trip fourth graders take to the capital. “That’s one of my favorite things.”

Lowry said the grant money will go toward the school’s Healthy Eating, Active Living program. It will fund projects such as the tower garden, which provides fresh produce at the school as well as Fitbit step counters and heart rate monitors to help track physical activity.