Metro is now accepting applications for grants to fund community projects in neighborhoods near Metro Central transfer station in Northwest Portland. Last year, Metro awarded close to $240,000 to 10 organizations.
Applications are due by midnight, Friday, Sept. 14.
“Metro wants to be a good neighbor.” said Rob Nathan, Metro’s community enhancement grants manager.
Nathan says the grants can help improve the quality of life in neighborhoods near Metro’s garbage and recycling facility in Northwest Portland, while also helping to reduce the disproportionate impacts of the garbage system on those communities – like pollution, traffic and noise. Grants can also support the human health of residents living nearby.
The grants are awarded each year through Metro’s Community Enhancement Program. They are funded by a $1 surcharge on each ton of waste at the Metro Central Transfer Station, located off of Highway 30 in Northwest Portland. The grants benefit the neighborhoods of Forest Park, Cathedral Park and Linnton; the Northwest District Association and the Northwest Industrial Area; and an area directly adjacent to the St. Johns Bridge.
A committee of local residents review and select projects to fund. Last year, grants of up to $50,000 were awarded. The committee will consider grant applications requesting up to two years to complete.
Community enhancement grants are intended to serve nearby neighbors of all ages, abilities and backgrounds. Individuals, community groups, neighborhoods, nonprofits, schools and school groups, government agencies, faith groups and service groups with nonprofit or other tax-exempt status may apply.
Metro encourages applications for projects that involve the leadership and meaningful participation of people of color, immigrants, elders, youth, those with disabilities, low-income residents, and other underrepresented groups.
Metro will host an information session on Wednesday, Aug. 1 at 3:00 p.m. People with questions about the grants can also contact Ron Nathan at Metro at 503-797-1691 or [email protected].
Did you know?
Metro’s Community Enhancement Program serves seven cities: Forest Grove, Gresham, Portland, Oregon City, Sherwood, Troutdale and Wilsonville. Grants for each target area are managed by local committees.
Learn more