Hydrate and Nourish: Building Healthier Schools and Setting Students Up for Success

For the past two years, as one of our efforts towards improving children’s health and wellness in the Greater Richmond Area, we’ve partnered with Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) to pioneer a hydration program in Richmond Public Schools (RPS), Hydrate RPS. Powered by water and funded by the National Institutes of Health, Hydrate RPS was piloted with support from champions from RPS, our Community Advisory Board (CAB), Fit4Kids, and VCU. The program focused on education, outreach, and social marketing to make healthy hydration a natural part of school culture. The ultimate goal was to transform water access in RPS schools, ensuring clean and safe drinking water for every student, every day. 

We explored what students drink when thirsty at home or school, to see how often they choose water. Messaging starring “Hydration Heroes”—three superhero characters designed by a team of students– emphasized the benefits and fun of drinking water! Water trivia, rewards, and interactive lessons also kept kids moving and excited about hydration. We were grateful for the Hydration Ambassadors who served as a friendly point person, encouraging everyone to join the hydration movement. The results were powerful—students were 10x more likely to have water bottles at lunch after the intervention! 

Thanks to our continued partnership with VCU and the dedication of our community partners, we are expanding the Hydrate RPS program to 12 schools this year. Check out this video featuring a few of the Hydrate RPS CAB members. Stay tuned for updates as we continue making a splash!

In addition to our hydration efforts, we are also actively advocating for universal school meals in Virginia. The movement for universal school meals is really gaining traction across the country! With eight states implementing “Healthy School Meals for All” legislation since 2022, the momentum is undeniable. This vital initiative is all about making sure every child can munch on nutritious meals, fueling their growth and success.

The movement for universal school meals is really gaining traction across the country! With eight states implementing “Healthy School Meals for All” legislation since 2022, the momentum is undeniable. This vital initiative is all about making sure every child can munch on nutritious meals, fueling their growth and success. 

For a juicy insight into the importance of this initiative, check out the recent Senate Hearing on Healthy School Meals. 

Also, join Voices for Virginia’s Children on February 17th for Healthy School Meals for All Advocacy Day! Sign up to attend!

Let’s rally together to ensure that every student has access to fresh and healthy meals—because when it comes to nutrition, we all deserve to carrot our way to a brighter future!
For more information: https://frac.org/healthy-school-meals-for-all