The Building Healthy Communities Step Up for School Wellness Program is a school-based health and wellness initiative focused on improving the physical, nutritional, and emotional well-being of Michigan students. This annual competitive grant opportunity is open to all Michigan public, charter, and private nonprofit schools serving grades K–12. The program offers a customizable menu of over 15 resources, allowing schools to select those best suited to their needs, administrative support, and capacity.

Schools may apply for a variety of resources across three key focus areas: Physical Activity & Physical Education, Healthy Eating & Nutrition Education, and Well-Being. Each resource has its own grade-level applicability and may have additional eligibility criteria, such as participation in the National School Breakfast and Lunch Programs or maintaining an existing school food pantry. Resources include support for activities such as active recess, quality physical education, smoothies and healthy lattes, breakfast promotion, student mental health ambassadorship, and staff well-being initiatives.

Each school must complete a detailed online application, including the Required School Information section and the selected resource sections. Schools are encouraged to only apply for resources they can realistically implement, have support for, and that align with their grade levels. Print preview documents for each resource are available to help schools prepare their responses, but final submissions must be completed via the online platform.

Applications for the 2025–2026 school year are due by May 30, 2025. Selected schools will be notified via email at the start of the school year, and access to a customized Dashboard will be provided. This Dashboard will guide implementation across the program’s five-step framework and list which resources were approved or declined. Please note that not all requested resources are guaranteed to be awarded.

Schools new to the program must register online, while returning schools can log in to their existing accounts to apply. Program resources are intended to build sustainable wellness cultures and create healthier school environments across Michigan.

Additional support, including a Request for Applications (RFA), FAQs, informational webinars, and direct contact options, is available on the program’s website.