Equipment grants: By the numbers

By Joe Frollo | Posted 5/12/2015

They say there’s no such thing as a free lunch.

Maybe not. But free football equipment? Yeah, we got that.

The application process is under way for USA Football’s equipment grant program that annually awards $1 million in funds to youth organizations across the United States. All 501c3 youth leagues along with elementary, middle and high school programs are eligible to apply. Since 2008, USA Football has awarded more than $7 million in grants.

USA Football, along with the NFL Foundation, is committed to enhancing the football experience of all players at the youth and amateur levels. Organizations are awarded equipment grant credits ranging $500 or $2,500 based on need, merit and the organization's involvement with Heads Up Football. Equipment grant credits are redeemed through Riddell, USA Football's official protective equipment provider.

Here’s some examples of what $1,000 could get your league:

17  Riddell Revolution Attack youth helmets

22  Riddell Evolution youth shoulder pads

86  Five-pocket girdles

13  Blocking shields and stepover bags

129  Cones

Grant recipients can mix and match their purchases and also can take advantage of special USA Football pricing to add to their orders.

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Here’s what past grant recipients have said:

“USA Football is soley responsible for helping us out of our helmet problem. We were short 40 helmets and had 22 rejected in a year. Without USA Football, we would have had to turn kids away and not allow them to play this great game. Thanks, USA Football!”

“Receiving this grant has been huge for our district. In a year when funds were very lean for us, I was able to provide each of my teams with something they had never had before – tackling dummies. The coaches and players are thrilled, and it will only improve the quality of football players coming out of my district. Thank you!”

“Thank you so much for your help with our Native American youth. We are a small reservation school with a small budget and with your help all our players will be safer and feel like a team. This is the first time school has got new shoulder pads in 15 years, and the kids, parents and coaches are very happy that companies like Riddell and USA Football still have a big heart to give back to small communities. Words cannot express how players were feeling as they tried on new equipment. Once again thanks for your kind hearts and donation.”

“This is such a great opportunity to get equipment that we just haven't been able to afford in the past 10 years. The game is getting more and more expensive to equip with strict helmet regulations, reconditioning and to add to that budget cuts. It is nice to be able to provide our team with new equipment. Thank you!”

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