Flint Residents and Nonprofits Invited to Apply for Love Your Block Grants

Residents and nonprofits in Flint can now apply for funding through the Love Your Block program, which aims to enhance neighborhood improvement initiatives. Supported by the Bloomberg Center for Public Innovation at Johns Hopkins University, the program will offer mini-grants ranging from $500 to $4,000, enabling community members to undertake projects that strengthen local ties and improve public spaces.

The program encourages collaborative efforts between city leaders and residents. According to Flint’s Mayor Paul Coogan, “We’re looking for creative initiatives that can make a real difference in the Flint neighborhood.” He emphasized the importance of projects that focus on beautifying public areas, launching community programs, or addressing specific local needs.

Funding Details and Application Process

Both nonprofits and individual residents are eligible to apply for the grants. A notable aspect of the program is that applicants do not need ownership of the property where the project will be executed, provided they obtain permission from property owners. This flexibility allows for project implementation in locations that require attention the most.

Applications for the Love Your Block program are open until March 31, 2026, with a project completion deadline set for August 31, 2026. A critical requirement for successful applicants involves tracking their project’s outputs and measurable outcomes, ensuring that the impact of the initiatives can be clearly demonstrated. Additionally, all funds must be utilized according to the specifications outlined in the approved applications, with proper documentation mandated.

Interested parties can apply through the online application portal at https://fallriverma.gov/departments/community_development_agency/love_your_block.php. Paper applications are also available at the One Government Center in Fall River, specifically at the Community Development Agency, Room 633. For further inquiries, individuals can contact Gloria Saddler via email at [email protected] or by calling 508-324-2600.

This program aims to support initiatives that clearly benefit the community and lead to measurable improvements within Flint neighborhoods.