From classrooms to communities, Capital Blue Cross is helping support youth health programs across Central Pennsylvania and Cumberland County, distributing nearly $900,000 in 88 Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) and Live Healthy School Grants.
“At Capital Blue Cross, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and build healthy habits that can last a lifetime,” said Capital President and CEO Todd Shamash. “These programs help make that possible by creating more opportunities for students to stay active, eat well, explore new interests, and succeed both in and out of the classroom. When we invest in our children, we’re investing in stronger, healthier communities for everyone.”
EITC grants use state business-tax credits to fund scholarships and enrich educational opportunities through donations to innovative programs. Live Healthy School Grants provide up to $2,500 per school for innovative, student-focused programs that strive to increase physical activity, enhance nutrition, and encourage healthier lifestyles.
Through its support, Capital has helped fund schools, summer camps, and learning initiatives benefiting thousands of children.
Here are some of the programs that Capital’s support is making possible this year in Cumberland County:
Carlisle Area School District | LeTort Elementary: A comprehensive student support and wellness initiative that provides essential supplies, comfort items, and educational resources to help meet the basic needs of students facing economic hardship and trauma. Staff create a safe, supportive environment while incorporating age-appropriate lessons, materials, and positive reinforcement to promote healthy choices.
Cumberland Valley School District | Middlesex Elementary School: A schoolwide student wellness program that promotes healthy hydration through increased water access, hydration education, and classroom-based reward systems. Students are encouraged to develop positive habits related to behavior, responsibility, participation, and engagement, supported by incentives and recognition.
Mechanicsburg Area School District | Mechanicsburg Area High School: A safety and wellness initiative focused on replacing obsolete AED units with updated devices to ensure reliable emergency response across school facilities. The upgraded equipment will support staff and student safety by maintaining compliance with current guidelines and improving access to life-saving tools.
Shippensburg Area School District | James Burd Elementary School: A holistic health and wellness initiative that integrates physical activity, nutrition education, and evidence-based practices to support student growth and well-being. Students engage in hands-on learning experiences that connect movement, social-emotional development, and healthy eating habits in a developmentally appropriate way.
