New refrigeration units to provide Wooster elementary students with nutrition security

(WOOSTER, OH) July 7, 2026 – Nearly 37 percent of people in Wayne County have low to no access to healthy foods[i], yet according to the American Heart Association’s Life’s Essential 8, a healthy diet is scientifically proven to determine cardiovascular health.

In an effort to expand access to heart-healthy foods, the American Heart Association, dedicated to longer, healthier lives for all, will install three new refrigeration units at Wooster City Schools, thanks to a grant provided by the Wayne County Community Foundation.

"No child’s heart health should suffer because they are nutrition insecure,” said Gabbi Roszman, community impact director for the American Heart Association - Northeast Ohio. “With these refrigeration units, we are meeting Wayne County students where they are so that we can advance health and hope for all.”

The $15,000 grant from the Wayne County Community Foundation will be used to install refrigeration units at three elementary schools during the upcoming school year.

Any student will be able to access the food, which will include a week’s worth of fresh fruits, vegetables and low-sodium items they can take home in a discreet bag, along with educational materials about a heart-healthy diet.

“Every child deserves the opportunity to grow up healthy, and access to nutritious food is a critical part of that,” said Melanie Reusser Garcia, Executive Director of the Wayne County Community Foundation. “We are proud to work with the American Heart Association and Wooster City Schools to help remove barriers to healthy eating and invest in the long-term well-being of Wayne County students.”

A heart-healthy diet includes whole foods, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, nuts, seeds and cooking in healthy oils (like olive oil and canola oil).  It's very important to align your intake to your calorie needs to maintain a stable weight or help with weight loss if needed.

In addition to a healthy diet, the Life’s Essential 8 measures that determine cardiovascular health include controlled blood pressure, not smoking or vaping, healthy levels of cholesterol and lipids, physical activity, healthy blood sugar levels, adequate sleep and healthy weight.

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.   

Media Inquiries:

Chelsea Caldwell: 614-448-7943, chelsea.caldwell@heart.org