Southeast Missouri programs receive grants from the Missouri Foundation for Health

A Perryville, Mo., fitness program, antismoking programs at Saint Francis Medical Center and services to victims of sexual abuse won support from the Missouri Foundation for Health.

The foundation announced a package of four grants totaling almost $700,000 Tuesday that included $551,876 for Southeast Missouri.

From the Health and Active Communities initiative, the foundation will provide $259,535 for Perryville to install playground equipment, fitness stations on hiking and biking trails, implement a bicycle check-out program and create a community garden.

Saint Francis will receive $145,435 to continue offering the American Lung Association's Freedom from Smoking program to employees and the public.

The Southeast Missouri Network Against Sexual Violence will receive $146,906 to expand services for female victims of sexual abuse or sexual violence including the addition of a full-time advocate and a 24-hour hot line.