Grants Will Fund Cleanup Projects in 27 Rhode Island Communities
PROVIDENCE - The Department of Environmental Management, in partnership with Rhode Island Resource Recovery Corporation and the JR Vinagro Corporation, has awarded 58 grants totaling $28,250 to organizers of local Earth Day cleanup projects. This grant program is designed 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.
Grants of $250, $500, and $750 each are being provided to non-profit organizations and municipalities throughout the state for Earth Day-related activities that are connected to a volunteer cleanup initiative. The funds may be used for cleanup supplies including gloves and paper bags and eligible expenses such as hauling fees, and for local Earth Day celebrations and outreach activities that educate residents about environmental issues and attract volunteers to help cleanup. More than 8,260 people are expected to volunteer at cleanup events in 27 Rhode Island communities funded through the 2015 Earth Day grant program.
"Thanks to these grants, thousands of volunteers in neighborhoods across Rhode Island will be rolling up their sleeves to join local Earth Day cleanup events in their communities," said Governor Gina Raimondo. "Their work will make our suburban neighborhoods, small town main streets and urban centers cleaner and more attractive, which in turn will help attract tourists and new businesses to Rhode Island."
"We're thrilled to award Earth Day grants to all of the organizations that applied for funding this year," said DEM Director Janet Coit. "Volunteers in communities from Woonsocket to Westerly will be using the grants for cleanup supplies and Earth Day events that will help beautify local neighborhoods and Rhode Island's scenic and recreation areas. Getting involved in these Earth Day projects is also a great way for people to practice environmental stewardship."
Most of the Earth Day cleanup projects that receive funding through this grant program will be completed between April 1 and May 17. 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.
Since its start in 1970, Earth Day has served as a yearly catalyst for ongoing environmental education, action and change. Activities surrounding Earth Day rekindle personal commitment and broaden the base of public involvement through active participation in a wide variety of events. "Earth Day reminds us to take care of the lands and the waters that sustain us," Director Coit added. "That responsibility requires action every day of the year."
For additional information about the 2015 Earth Day grant program, contact DEM's Andrew Manca at 222-4700 ext. 2022 or via email at andrew.manca@dem.ri.gov.
A list of cleanup events that received grant funding is listed below.