USA Football, the sport's national governing body in the United States, and the Philadelphia Eagles recently awarded football equipment and uniform grants to youth and high school football programs throughout Pennsylvania, Delaware and New Jersey based on merit and need.

USA Football partners with the Eagles and all NFL clubs to annually distribute more than $2 million in equipment and uniform grants to youth and high school football programs across the United States. The grant program has supported youth organizations and high schools in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., since 2006. USA Football equipment and uniform grants are made possible through support from the NFL Foundation.

Grants are valued up to $1,500 for youth organizations and $2,500 for high school programs, offering new equipment, uniforms, equipment reconditioning and flag football equipment to provide young athletes greater access as well as the fun and fitness benefits of the sport. Grants are fulfilled by USA Football and its equipment and uniform partner Riddell.

USA Football is the official youth football development partner of the Eagles, the NFL and each of the league's other 31 teams.

"We are pleased to work with USA Football and our teams to donate much-needed equipment to youth football leagues and high school football programs nationwide," said Alexia Gallagher, director of the NFL Foundation. "These equipment grants will help ensure that youngsters who share our love of the game are able to play it safely."

 "The health and safety of every young football player is our No. 1 priority," USA Football Executive Director Scott Hallenbeck said. "Having proper equipment is an important step toward that goal. Even with fundraising and strict attention to budgets, many leagues and school districts need help to properly outfit their young athletes who love to play football and enjoy the fun and fitness that comes with it. We are proud to lead this important program with support from the NFL Foundation and Riddell."

Area youth and high school programs awarded a 2015 USA Football Equipment Grant:

Blackhawks Athletic Club                                                        Philadelphia, Pa.

Hamilton Youth Athletic Association                                           Mays Landing, N.J.

Juniata Thundercats                                                               Philadelphia, Pa.

Kensington High School                                                          Sicklerville, N.J.

Middletown High School Football                                               Townsend, Del.

Nu Sigma Sharks                                                                   Philadelphia, Pa.

Pottstown Area Police Athletic League                                         Pottstown, Pa.

St. Georges Technical High School                                             Middletown, Del.

Twin Valley Football                                                               Roslyn, Pa.

Wissahickon-KSL                                                                   Philadelphia, Pa.