Rethink Your Drink: Water's Cool at School

Rethink Your Drink: Water's Cool at School

Funder: Delta Dental Foundation (in partnership with MESSA)

Geographic Scope: Michigan schools

Program Status: Not currently accepting applications (last deadline passed; awaiting next grant cycle)

Overview:
The Delta Dental Foundation partnered with MESSA to promote access to drinking water in schools as a healthy alternative to sugary beverages. The program committed $200,000 total to replace existing drinking fountains at selected Michigan schools with new Elkay water fountain/bottle filling stations.

Program Goals

• Encourage students to drink more water during the school day
• Combat obesity and improve student health
• Increase energy levels and cognitive function
• Prevent cavities through fluoridated water consumption

Award Components

Schools could receive:
• One or more brand new Elkay water fountain/bottle filling stations (including installation)
• Water bottles for all students and staff
• Professional installation by Balfrey & Johnston, Inc. (Oak Park, MI)

Eligibility

• Michigan schools (Pre-K through grade 12)
• School classrooms

Notable Past Recipients (2018-2019)

Over 100 Michigan schools received funding, including:
• Alcona Elementary, Middle and High Schools
• Lincoln Andrews Elementary School
• Aspen Ridge Middle School (Ishpeming)
• Athens High School (Troy)
• And 100+ additional schools across Michigan

Contact Information

• Website: https://www.deltadentalmi.com/giving-back/Grants/Rethink-Your-Drink
• Reference materials available on CDC and water promotion resources