FutureHeights awards mini-grants to three CH projects

FutureHeights held the fifth round of its Neighborhood Mini-Grants Program this fall, approving $1,700 in grants to support three projects in Cleveland Heights.

To date, the community development corporation has awarded 18 grants for a total of $12,384. The grants are intended to spur small, grassroots projects to improve quality of life and build community. 

FutureHeights mini-grants fall 2017 grants are: 

Bikur Cholim of Cleveland was awarded $325 for its Hannukah – Light Menorah Party project. The organization is hosting the event in Cleveland Heights to bring special-needs children and their families together in celebration of Hannukah, and help create a strong support system within the community.

The Welcome Hub was awarded $875 for its Drivers Education Scholarships for Refugees program. The Welcome Hub serves as a source of information and resources for resettled refugees in Cleveland Heights. It created the program in order to address the need for affordable access to transportation as part of the resettlement process.

Fairfax Community Garden was awarded $500 for its Fence Replacement project. The organization has enabled residents to garden on a private plot since the 1980s, but desires to transition to a community gathering place that incorporates both community residents and those affiliated with Fairfax Elementary School. The new fence replaces one that was badly deteriorated and will create a more welcoming, attractive and functional environment for gardeners and visitors.

If you have an idea to improve your neighborhood, FutureHeights invites you to apply for a grant. Applicants should plan to attend a workshop to learn more about how to apply, and get tips about completing the application.

The next application deadline is Thursday, March 15 at 5 p.m. Workshops are scheduled for Feb. 8 and 15, 7 p.m., at the FutureHeights office, 2843 Washington Blvd.

The FutureHeights Neighborhood Mini-Grants Program awards small grants of up to $1,000 to fund citizen-led neighborhood projects, events and activities that benefit Cleveland Heights. The program is guided by a grant-making committee that comprises seven Cleveland Heights residents with a history of community involvement. The committee reviews and makes all grant decisions.

Learn more at www.futureheights.org/programs/community-building-programs or contact FutureHeights at sbasu@futureheights.org, or 216-320-1423.