GCEF Awards First Round of Small Grants

Attorney General Schneiderman, Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Martens and Senator Dilan announced the first series of grants to be awarded through the Greenpoint Community Environmental Fund (GCEF).

The state is awarding $395,135 in small grants – between $5,000 and $25,000 – to 18 environmental improvement priority projects identified by Greenpoint residents. The proposals are the culmination of nearly two years of public meetings that helped shape many of the projects receiving grants. Together with an additional $196,916 in matching funds, a total of $592,055 will go toward Greenpoint’s environmental priorities.

“After suffering more than a century of industrial negligence, Greenpoint is finally getting the attention it deserves. These initial grants mark the culmination of decades of community advocacy and the diligence of state environmental officials and the state Attorney General’s Office. I commend Attorney General Schneiderman, Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Martens, all those that submitted proposals, and especially the members of the Greenpoint Community Advisory Panel for their dedication and hard work. Each of your efforts will leave a lasting impact on the Greenpoint community that will inspire future generations of Greenpointers,” said Senator Dilan in the naming of the recipients.

GCEF is expected to award additional projects through two more grants, a legacy and large grant, this October.  

The GCEF is a $19.5 million grant program created by the State of New York with monies obtained through a settlement with ExxonMobil over its Greenpoint oil spill. The GCEF’s goal is to fund projects that will address the Greenpoint community’s environmental priorities through a process that is open, transparent, and ensures ongoing engagement and partnership with the community.