Children’s physical health is a huge issue not only in our nation, but in our local community.
70-80% of overweight children become obese adults and Michigan ranks as the 12th most obese state in our nation (source). The Junior League of Grand Rapids believes that early intervention is key in stopping this nationwide epidemic. Children in our area need increased access to play and physical activity. Families need education on how to purchase and prepare nutritional food.
The Junior League of Grand Rapids provides opportunities for children to improve their physical health through our Kids in the Kitchen and JL Wellness Adventure Yard projects. Community partners can support these programs at a variety of levels.
- A healthy goodie bag with a jump rope, clementine, trail mix, water bottle, and educational materials for a Kids in the Kitchen event costs $5 per child with nearly 1,000 children served annually for a total of $5,000
- One Kids in the Kitchen program, including educational activities and an exercise component, costs $500 to educate 75 students and parents
- A four seat swing costs approximately $3,000 for each JL Wellness Adventure Yard or a $250 donation per month
- Specialized play equipment for an entire JL W.A.Y. costs approximately $20,000. The equipment is chosen based on the physical and sensory needs of the children the W.A.Y. serves each day.
Your gift, no matter the amount, helps us to improve our community. Together, we are ensuring that children have access to safe areas of play and nutritional food. Both are essential in improving children’s physical health and reversing the growing trend of obesity.
Click here to give your tax-deductible gift online today through our secure server or contact our office at 616.451.0452 or JuniorLeagueGR@gmail.com about making a gift. You can also send checks made payable to the Junior League of Grand Rapids to our office:
25 Sheldon Boulevard SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Sponsorship Information
Click here to view our 2022-2023 Sponsorship Packages.