GRESHAM, OR. – The City’s Community Enhancement Program seeks to distribute up to $47,000 in grants to organizations whose projects enhance the Gresham community. Applications are now open and will be accepted through November 29 at 5 p.m. Eligible projects include improvements to the appearance of a neighborhood, preservation of the natural environment, enhancement of public safety, recreational opportunities or those benefiting under-served populations. Examples could include park programs and events, senior programs, youth programs, 5K community run, job skills/work opportunities for the unemployed/homeless, heritage and preservation of Gresham’s history and more.

“Whatever your great project idea is, it must provide a benefit to Gresham residents,” said Joe Walsh, Senior Manager, Neighborhood Prosperity and Youth Engagement.

Eligible applicants for Community Enhancement Grants include nonprofit and charitable organizations, neighborhood associations, schools and institutions of higher learning, faith-based groups, and government advisory committees, departments and special districts.

A Community Enhancement Advisory Committee allocates the grants.

Metro’s community enhancement grants improve economic opportunities, neighborhood livability, public safety and more in areas where there is a garbage transfer facility. Gresham’s Community Enhancement Program was established in 2017 after the longtime waste collection site on Northwest Birdsdale became a solid waste franchise of Metro. Metro compensates the City by distributing $1 per ton for all solid waste collected at the station, which is then dispersed to community organizations in the form of enhancement grants.

For complete requirements and the application, visit www.GreshamOregon.gov/Community-Enhancement-Grants. Or, pick up a hard copy at City Hall, 1333 NW Eastman Parkway, Gresham.