The Detroit Lions announced today that online applications for their 2024 Touchdown in Your Town program are now open. The program, which supports high school football programs around the state of Michigan, will now also benefit cheer programs, both broadening the reach to student athletes and further growing the game.

 In partnership with the United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM) and Planet Fitness, the Lions are dedicated to aiding schools by supplying crucial equipment, technology, apparel and/or grants funded by the Detroit Lions Foundation. Building on last year’s success, Planet Fitness renewed its commitment to renovating a school weight room for at least one selected program.

 "We are excited to continue impacting Michigan high school football teams through Touchdown in Your Town, as well as expand our reach by now also supporting high school cheer programs," said Detroit Lions Vice President of Detroit Lions Foundation and Community Relations Roxanne Caine. "By wielding our resources with the Detroit Lions Foundation, and teaming up with UDIM and Planet Fitness, we will be able to empower the selected schools and ensure the students have the tools they need for success on the field."

 Schools must apply for support through an online application at www.detroitlions.com/touchdown, which opened today, Monday, April 29 and will run through Wednesday, May 29 at 11:59 PM EST. Coaches, athletic directors, and football and cheer staff members from Michigan high schools are eligible to apply for one football grant and/or one cheer grant. Submissions will be reviewed by a committee comprised of members from the Lions organization and partners.

Once the programs are selected, the Lions will work with each school to surprise students and staff to reveal the new resources and/or funding during a special experience with the Detroit Lions.

Designed to foster safe play and a love of football while leveling the playing field for Michigan high school football programs, the Touchdown in Your Town program has invested more than $754,000 since 2019. This program is a key pillar to our $5,000,000 investment in youth sports throughout the community.