The Paso del Norte Health Foundation recently awarded six planning grants totaling more than $473,000 under Goal One of the foundation's strategic framework. The purpose of the funding is to support organizations in their development, expansion or pilot testing of programs to improve physical activity and nutrition. Funded organizations are:

-  City of El Paso: $111,725, to develop a prototype community garden plan and pilot test a garden at one park location.

-  County of El Paso: $111,090 for a pilot test of a community garden and to build a program model for employee/family wellness.

-  City of El Paso: $50,595 for training on and to pilot test Health Impact Assessments. The city also plans to develop an employee wellness program.

-  The FEMAP Foundation: $46,035 to plan and evaluate a pilot nutrition program, based in community kitchens, for children in Juárez.

-  La Semilla Food Center: $86,404 to plan a youth farm and pilot a farm-to-school program. Also to engage the community with a Regional Food Summit.

-  Youth Life Skills For Greater El Paso Inc.: $23,040 for a pilot test of a national school program in elementary schools and market the Out of School Golf Opportunities at 10 elementary schools.