September 20, 2011

Since 1985, Metro has invested more than $5 million in grants to areas impacted by Metro's garbage disposal facilities. The "Community Enhancement Grants" awarded each year support improvements like new trees around parks, main streets, and industrial areas, new fire escapes at senior centers, ivy removal and habitat restoration at Forest Park, and more. For example, REACH CDC, one of the Portland Housing Bureau's community partners, received a grant to make home repairs for 23 local seniors, helping them stay in their homes safely and independently.

This year, Metro has announced the availability of $65,000 to support investments in Northwest and North Portland neighborhoods. The grants will go to non-profits organizations like community groups, schools, and others who share a passion for improving their neighborhood.

Up to a dozen projects will be funded. Proposed projects must align with one or more of Metro's funding goals, and a pre-application is required to be considered for an award.

If you've got a great idea for a project to improve your North or Northwest Portland community, this program could help make your vision a reality!

Click here for more, or contact Metro's Karen Blauer with questions: karen.blauer@oregonmetro.gov or (503) 797-1506.

Photo: The REACH team that cleaned gutters, built porch steps and railings, cleared blackberries, and more to help local seniors stay in their homes. We borrowed the photo from Metro - thank you!