Thanks to a Fuel Up to Play 60 grant of $3,600, the students at Western Hills Middle School will soon be sipping smoothies and using some new gym equipment in the weight room.

Dean of Students Nick Ruggieri wrote a grant application for the funding, which was awarded to the school last week. According to its website, Fuel Up to Play 60 is an “in-school nutrition and physical activity program launched by the National Dairy Council and NFL in collaboration with the USDA, to help encourage today’s youth to lead healthier lives.” The program encourages students to make healthier choices throughout their day and to participate in challenges that promote physical activity and good nutrition. There are several other Cranston Public Schools involved.

Thanks to the grant, there will be four new elliptical machines in the weight room as an option for students. The smoothies will be available in the morning during the breakfast program and will be managed by Aramark, according to Tricia Wright, general manager for Aramark in the Cranston Public Schools.

Both Jane Vergnani from the New England Dairy and Food Council and Wright were on hand to present the check last week. Ruggieri and Western Hills Principal Tim Vesey were there for the presentation. (Text and photo by Jen Cowart)