Environment DEC
From the March 2008 issue
More than One Million Dollars Available in Environmental Justice Grant Funds
Aiming to help neighborhood organizations address local concerns, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced it is now accepting applications for Environmental Justice Community Impact grants. The grants are being made available to local community organizations in neighborhoods historically overburdened by a higher density of contaminated sites, air pollution, water pollution, noise, lack of green open space and waterfront access, related public health effects and reduced quality of life as compared to other communities in New York State. Eligible grant projects must address environmental or related human health problems in the community and educate community residents.
Grants will focus on environmental health concerns such as water and air pollution
Grant Amounts and Previous Projects
Grants will range from $2,500 to $50,000. In 2006 and 2007, nearly $300,000 was awarded to organizations throughout the state for projects such as green rooftops, contaminated site inventories, air monitoring, community gardens, childhood lead poisoning education programs and many others. For this grant cycle, more than $1.2 million in grant funding is available.
Applications
Applications are available from DEC's Office of Environmental Justice by calling 1-866-229-0497 or by visiting DEC's website. Grant-writing workshops will be scheduled throughout New York State. Please consult DEC's website for workshop dates and locations, frequently asked questions and other information.
Assistance
For technical assistance or general application questions, contact: Monica Kreshik, Environmental Justice Coordinator, or Doug Morrison, Environmental Program Specialist, at DEC's Office of Environmental Justice, 625 Broadway, Albany, New York, 12233-1500. E-mail: ej@gw.dec.state.ny.us, call 518-402-8556 or, if outside the 518 area code, call toll free: 1-866-229-0497.
