On Tuesday, June 17, third graders at St. Francis Academy in Union City enjoyed a special visit that focused on fun, learning, and making smart choices for their future. The PSEG Foundation joined us for this event as part of a statewide initiative to promote healthy, drug-free living among young students.

From left: St. Francis Academy third-grade teacher Angela Nielsen; Joe McQueen, Senior Regional Public Affairs Manager for Hudson County; Maria Spina, Manager of Corporate Social Responsibility at the PSEG Foundation; PDFNJ Executive Director Angelo Valente; and St. Francis Academy Principal Deborah Savage

At the heart of the visit was the Third Grade Health Life, Healthy Decisions Coloring and Activity Book, a colorful, engaging resource filled with puzzles, games, and wellness tips designed to spark conversations about nutrition, exercise, and staying substance-free. One of the book’s standout features is a Healthy Choices Contract, where students, parents, and teachers sign and pledge their support for a positive and healthy lifestyle.

This event was part of a much larger campaign that reached 40,000 third graders across New Jersey in 2025. The goal? To get kids thinking early about the kinds of choices that help them grow strong in body and mind.

Joining the enthusiastic students for this special occasion were Maria Spina, Manager of Corporate Social Responsibility at the PSEG Foundation; Joe McQueen, Senior Regional Public Affairs Manager for Hudson County; third-grade teacher Angela Nielsen; and Principal Deborah Savage. Their presence helped reinforce the importance of this message and underscored New Jersey communities' commitment to supporting the health and well-being of their youngest members.

Programs like these serve as a potent reminder that prevention begins early and is most effective when schools, families, and communities collaborate to make a positive impact.

Schools can register for the program here.