Grants to help neighborhoods

Community groups can now receive up to $3,000 to spearhead projects devoted to developing and improving their community.
The Citizens Committee for New York City recently announced their annual program, New Yorkers for Better Neighborhoods, designed to offer grants across the five boroughs so that volunteer-led neighborhood groups can improve the quality-of-life within their area.
“Neighborhood groups in Queens have a finger on the pulse of their communities, and understand the best ways to remedy neighborhood challenges, and improve the quality of life in ways that matter most,” said Peter Kostmayer, president of the citizens committee.
The grants, ranging from $500 to $3,000, are offered through three different programs headed by the committee. The deadline to apply for these grants is March 14.
The annual New Yorkers for Better Neighborhoods awards grant offers up to $3,000 for community groups in economically hard-pressed neighborhoods, to fund improvement projects where neighbors are brought together.
Grants of $1,000 will be offered to 12 community groups through the Mollie Parnis Dress Up Your Neighborhood contest for beautification projects that will unite the neighborhood. Community groups could beautify a street or building, or turn an empty lot into a neighborhood garden. The winning community group will receive an additional $3,000 for their project.
Public school students are also eligible for grants through the Mollie Parnis Dress Up Your School Awards, where they could receive between $500 to $3,000 for student-led projects devoted to redecorating schools or the neighborhood surrounding them. Students in the past have planted flowers, removed graffiti and cleaned up hallways and sidewalks surrounding their school.
The New Yorkers for Better Neighborhoods program was created to provide grassroots community groups with the tools and support needed to improve their neighborhoods. Since its inception, The New Yorkers for Better Neighborhoods program has provided almost $250,000 to local community organizations.
To learn more about the New Yorkers for Better Neighborhoods awards and for information on how you can submit an application call 212-989-0909, or email grants@citiznsnyc.org.