The City of Savannah has been awarded a $125,000 grant from the African American Mayors Association (AAMA), in partnership with the American Beverage Foundation for a Healthy America, to support local initiatives that promote access to healthy foods, improve nutrition education, and address affordability in underserved communities. 

Savannah is one of seven cities nationwide selected in four categories through a competitive application process recognizing innovative, equity-driven public health strategies. 

“We have to create opportunities as a loving and just community to ensure that all young people have access to clean, good, healthy food,” Mayor Van R. Johnson, II said. “I am so grateful, and I thank the American Beverage Foundation for a Healthy America and my beloved African American Mayors Association for helping us to be Savannah strong.” 

Cities were selected based on demonstrated leadership in addressing community health challenges, the strength and sustainability of their proposed initiatives, and their ability to deliver measurable outcomes. The City of Savannah will partner with Healthy Savannah to enhance ongoing efforts focused on nutrition access, food affordability, and community-based education programs. 

“Nutrition access, affordability and education are cornerstones of a healthy community,” Kevin Keane, president and CEO of American Beverage and president of the ABFHA Board of Directors said. “That’s why America’s beverage companies are proud to partner with AAMA to support mayors as they work tirelessly to improve the health and well-being of our communities. Our deep congratulations to the winning mayors and their cities on the outstanding efforts. These grants, coupled with delivering choice and information, will help our communities make the best choices for themselves and their families.”   

A total of $600,000 in grants were issued this year. This year, New Orleans, La. and Savannah received $125,000 in the mid-size city category. Atlanta, Ga. was selected in the large-size city category, receiving $175,000. Dumfries, Va. and Maywood, Ill received $75,000 in the small-sized city category. Earle, Ark. And Ranking, Penn. Received $12,500 in the town category. 

The grant announcement took place during the African American Mayors Association National Conference in Washington, D.C., April 16-18.