Funded by a $1 fee on each ton of waste processed at the Metro Central Transfer Station in Northwest Portland, this grant program benefits the neighborhoods of Forest Park and Linnton; the Northwest District Association and the Northwest Industrial Area; and an area around Cathedral Park in St Johns. A committee of local community members and Metro Councilor reviews applications and selects projects to fund. The Metro Central Community Enhancement Committee approved funding for nine projects in the 2025 grant cycle, awarding a total of $276,600.
Chapman Elementary
$21,000
This project will support the Reading Results program and provide a proven reading intervention program to first, second and third grade students who are reading one to two grades below grade level.
Forest Park Conservancy
$26,353
The Habitat Restoration Program will lead volunteer work parties that will focus on invasive species removal and native planting in Forest Park. Volunteers will receive training in restoration techniques, safety protocols and the ecological impact of their work.
Friendly House
$48,000
Friendly House will deliver senior services to support older adults to live healthy and independent lives, and manage a community center that provides fitness programs, classes, volunteer opportunities, showers and internet access.
Jazz Society of Oregon
$15,000
Funds will support paying for musicians at the 45th Annual Cathedral Park Jazz Festival. This beloved summer community event features a broad selection of music and food produced by local artists, chefs and art vendors.
Lift Urban Portland
$40,000
Lift Urban Portland will host two interns to gain experience in food systems, with an emphasis on food waste reduction, local gleaning, farmer relationships and bolstering fresh food access for people experiencing food insecurity.
Store to Door
$25,000
Store to Door will support independent living for homebound seniors and those living with disabilities through personal, volunteer-based grocery shopping and free-food box deliveries, friendly caller social connections and referrals to other community services.
Trailkeepers of Oregon
$36,347
Funds support 14 Trail Stewardship trail parties at Bird Alliance to build, maintain and improve hiking trails. TKO will also host 10 Ambassador table events at Bird Alliance to increase public awareness and engagement.
VetRest
$24,900
VetREST is partnering with Portland Parks and Recreation on a Cathedral Park Landscape Project. Volunteers will expand existing nature beds by removing grass and adding plants, and will add an ADA picnic table at the base of a trail.
William Temple House
$40,000
Funds will support installing a freight lift for the William Temple Food Pantry to enhance safety and efficiency of food pantry operations.
Learn more about Metro Central Enhancement Grants