What's Happening?
Illinois schools are now eligible to apply for the 2026 H2O on the Go grant program, which provides water bottle-filling stations to promote oral health and sustainability. The program, a collaboration between Delta Dental of Illinois Foundation and Illinois Children’s
Healthcare Foundation, aims to replace traditional drinking fountains with touch-free stations. This initiative encourages students to choose water over sugary drinks, reducing cavities and supporting environmental efforts by minimizing plastic waste.
Why It's Important?
The H2O on the Go program addresses significant health and environmental issues. By promoting water consumption, the initiative helps combat tooth decay, a prevalent chronic disease among children. Additionally, the program supports sustainability by reducing plastic waste, aligning with broader environmental goals. Schools participating in this program can enhance student health and contribute to ecological conservation efforts.
What's Next?
Schools interested in the grant must apply by May 8, with priority given to those without existing bottle-filling stations. Selected schools will receive the stations, along with reusable water bottles and toothbrushes for students. This initiative is expected to expand, potentially influencing other states to adopt similar programs to improve public health and sustainability.
