Felida students raise $42,500 in Kids Heart Challenge

FELIDA — Students at Felida Elementary School set a state record for the third year in a row as part of the Kids Heart Challenge, raising more than $42,500 for the American Heart Association.

The families and community rallied around the school and its students this year, not only in fundraising but also by participating in the heart-healthy Kids Heart Challenge curriculum. Many students reported learning hands-only CPR with their families.

“The kids at Felida Elementary School made a real difference in the fight against heart disease,” said Emily Anderly, American Heart Association Senior Director. “They raised a record amount of money among participating schools in Washington that will fund life-saving research. Also 87 families took the opportunity to learn hands-only CPR as a part of their student’s involvement in the program.”

Kids Heart Challenge allows students to improve their own health by doing things like cardio-based activities, making pledges to stay active, and doing good deeds in the community.

For nearly 45 years, the American Heart Association has been partnering with educators in elementary, middle and high schools across the nation to help educate students about healthy living. This was Felida’s 36th year participating in the challenge.

“In addition to the life-saving funds they’ve helped raise, the students are learning and making changes that will impact them for a lifetime,” said Anderly.

The Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge school programs provide unique age-appropriate curriculum and activities. Students and educators have the tools needed to support both mental and physical well-being in students, families and staff, all while making a difference by raising funds to save lives.