Online Grant Applications Must be Submitted to DEM by March 11
PROVIDENCE - In celebration of Earth Day - April 22, 2015 - the Department of Environmental Management is partnering with the Rhode Island Resource Recovery Corporation and the JR Vinagro Corporation to offer grants to organizers of local Earth Day cleanup projects. The goal of this grant program is to highlight Earth Day 2015 and the value of the environment, and recognize the importance of people improving the quality of life in their communities.
"Beautiful and clean neighborhoods attract tourists and new businesses to our state," said Governor Gina Raimondo. "I hope Rhode Islanders in neighborhoods from Newport to North Smithfield roll up their sleeves and help organize a volunteer Earth Day event in their local community."
A total of $28,150 in grants will be awarded to Rhode Island organizations hosting volunteer Earth Day cleanup projects that will be completed between April 1 and May 17. Grants of $250, $500, $750 or $1,000 each will be provided for Earth Day-related outreach activities, including local Earth Day celebrations that educate residents about environmental issues and attract volunteers to help cleanup. The grants, available to non-profit organizations and municipalities (including schools, parks & recreation departments, public works departments, conservation commissions, etc.), must be used for activities connected to a volunteer community cleanup initiative. Successful applicants will receive the grant money in advance of their event. Proof that the activity was carried out successfully and in accordance with the proposal must be submitted to DEM within one week of the event taking place.
"Communities all across Rhode Island will reap the benefits of cleaner and more attractive neighborhoods, thanks to the Earth Day grant program," said DEM Director Janet Coit. "DEM is pleased to partner with the RI Resource Recovery Corporation and JR Vinagro Corporation to offer this funding for community cleanup events. These projects will help improve the appearance of our local communities and Rhode Island's scenic and recreation areas, and are a great way for residents to practice environmental stewardship."
Funds may be used for supplies such as paper bags and gloves and other eligible expenses such as hauling fees. The grant funds can be used to completely fund an event, or to fund a portion of a larger event. There is no match requirement. Additionally, RIRRC also offers tipping fee waivers for eligible cleanup projects that apply at rirrc.org/earth-day.
"Resource Recovery is thrilled to once again partner with DEM and JR Vinagro to support local community Earth Day activities," said Michael OConnell, RIRRC Executive Director. "Involving people at the local, neighborhood level helps make these actions personal. And nothing's more personal than protecting the environment to ensure a healthy future for our community."
Funding for these grants is a result of a community service payment made by Southern Union and a supplemental environmental project from JR Vinagro Corporation.
Last year, DEM awarded 38 Earth Day grants totaling $16,850. Interest in the program in previous years was tremendous, and the selection process is always highly competitive. DEM expects a similar response in 2015.
New this year, DEM is using an online application for this grant program. The application is available on DEM's website, www.dem.ri.gov, by clicking on "2015 Earth Day Grant Program" under Timely Topics on the homepage. Applications can also be found by using this website address: www.dem.ri.gov/earthday2015.htm.
Applications must be submitted online to DEM no later than 4 p.m. Wednesday, March 11. Paper applications will not be considered for grant awards.
Questions may be directed to Andy Manca at 401-222-4700 ext. 2022 or via email to andrew.manca@dem.ri.gov.
Awards will be announced on the DEM website in late March, and successful applicants will be notified via email.