Community Gardeners, take heart. Grants to support new and existing community gardens throughout Franklin County are being offered for the third consecutive year. The program, administered by The Columbus Foundation with the support of Mayor Michael Coleman, Councilmember Priscilla Tyson and the Franklin County Commissioners, will grant awards of up to $4,000 per project.
“Community gardens do an exceptional job filling a void in neighborhoods,” said Mayor Coleman. “Where abandoned houses once stood, gardens are taking root, adding beauty and recreational space for neighbors to gather.”
Grant awards can be used to buy supplies and/or contractual services, but are not meant for ongoing operational or personnel expenses. As for what qualifies as a community garden, the criteria is very open. It includes fruits, vegetables, flowers, herbs, and basically any thing else that grows and will have a positive impact on the community. Organizations can apply online from February 15th to March 1st, and winners will be announced on April 22nd at Franklin Park Conservatory.
More information and application instructions are available at www.columbusfoundation.org.