Jersey City’s BelovED Community Charter School just got some serious green to help grow its muscles – and we don’t mean spinach! The 720-student, K – 5 school received a $3,000 “Go!Grant” to help support physical fitness initiatives.

Who’s behind the cause? The Jersey City school officials announced in a press release that PHIT America and the Sports & Fitness Industry Association teamed up to donate the money that will help improve its physical education program.

John Taylor, a physical education teacher and the Jersey City school’s anti-bullying coordinator, commented, " Due to their generosity, our students will now be given the opportunity to develop lifetime fitness and activity skills that will enable them to live happier and healthier lives well into adulthood."

Since the start of the 2015 school year, 156 “Go!Grants” have been donated to schools across 22 states. Grants can range from $1,000 to $5,000 per school, dependent upon the school’s needs. So far, BelovED Community Charter School at 508 Grand St. is the only recipient in New Jersey.

Jim Baugh, founder of PHIT America, commented on youth fitness in America, and said: “The 'Inactivity Pandemic' is having a major impact on life in America, as 83 million Americans are total couch potatoes and this number is increasing. More and more children are inactive. This is a national team effort and we invite companies and organizations in the private and public sector to join us as we educate America about the power and importance of physical activity."

We love seeing the children in Jersey City get fit, stay active and be healthy. Congrats BelovED!

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