Nourishing Champions

Access to proper nutrition impacts student athletes’ ability to play. With nearly 50% of students in the state of Washington on free and reduced lunches, there remains a gap in equity. It’s essential that the availability of adequate food and hydration matches the demands of athletic activities.

Nourishing Champions is a collaboration between Champions of Change and Safeway that aims to address this gap by providing funding for nutritious snacks and meals for high school sports teams in Washington State. At least $500,000 will be awarded to selected high schools throughout the state for the ’24-’25 school year. The average award amount will be between $15,000 and $25,000.


Grant Overview

  • Application Deadline: May 21, 2024
  • Announcement of Awarded Schools: Late May 2024
  • Grant Period: The 2024-2025 academic year
  • Funding Details: Over $500,000 in total awards, with individual grants ranging from $15,000 to $25,000
  • Awarded schools are invited to the Champions of Change All-Star Charity Basketball Game on June 28, 2024

Grant Criteria

  • Washington State High School Athletic Teams – Applications must be submitted by individual schools rather than through district-wide submissions to be considered for funding.
  • 70% of students qualify for free or reduced lunches
  • Funds must be made available to all teams in need of food/meals
  • Food purchases must be approved by Athletic Trainer/Sports Nutritionist/Athletic Director or other designee
  • Food purchases should be informed by provided standard dietary guidelines