The city of Livonia is offering residents a way to improve their neighborhoods through a grant program that puts money directly into the hands of community members. – The city of Livonia is offering residents a way to improve their neighborhoods through a grant program that puts money directly into the hands of community members.
The deadline to apply is May 31.
Each year, the Rosedale Garden Neighborhood Association holds a Fourth of July parade, and some of the funding comes from the city’s Neighborhood Grant Program.
“I think it’s just a small way that the city can give back to residents to have a small, meaningful impact within the community,” City Councilwoman Carrie Budzinski said.
This year, the city will award 25 grants of up to $500.
“There’s a lot of flexibility in how people see community,” Budzinski said.
In the nine years since the program began, more than 200 projects have received funding, according to the city.
One of the first projects was a 2017 Eagle Scout project by Hans Anderson, who used the grant money to help fund an outdoor classroom at Hoover Elementary School, which is still in use.
“There are lots of opportunities for people to get creative, whether it’s gardening or celebrating or supporting sports,” Budzinski said.
City officials say applications can include neighborhood events such as block parties, as well as community art programs, landscaping, or beautification of public spaces.
Preference goes to first-time applicants.
After the May 31 deadline, applications will be evaluated.
If selected, recipients must spend and document the funds by Nov. 30.