The Atlanta Falcons and Fuel Up to Play 60 are teaming up for a seventh year to award deserving Georgia schools with a $10,000 Hometown Grant, which is part of a larger initiative between the National Football League and Fuel Up to Play 60 that supplies a $10,000 grant to deserving schools in each of the 32 NFL markets, impacting students’ overall health and wellness. This year, the Atlanta Falcons selected Bibb County Schools for the $10,000 award.

The presentation took place on February 11 with a virtual meeting that included Bibb County elementary school students. Special guests sent personalized messages to Bibb County Schools to celebrate the award. In addition to messages from former Atlanta Falcons Safety Ricardo Allen and the Atlanta Falcons Cheerleaders, mascot Freddie Falcon presented his “P.L.A.Y. Book for Fitness,” emphasizing the importance of eating healthy and staying active 60minutes a day.

“We are extremely thankful and excited to be the recipient of the 2020-2021 Hometown Grant Award!” said Timikel Sharpe, Executive Director of Bibb County School Nutrition.

Healthy eating and physical wellness are crucial to promoting students’ health, well-being and learning ability. This funding comes at a time when school nutrition programs are facing financial challenges. Sharpe continued, “Receiving this grant allows us enhance the meal service experience with mobile carts and new menu items that help more students enjoy eating safely at school.”

The Dairy Alliance and Fuel Up to Play 60 have partnered with the Bibb County Schools in recent years, promoting students' increased access to healthy foods, including dairy and physical activity opportunities.