Applications are currently being accepted for “Environmental Justice Small Grants” to support projects that address local environmental and public health issues within affected communities. EPA’s New England regional office expects to award four grants of $20,000.

The Environmental Justice Small Grants Program is designed to help communities understand and address their exposure to multiple environmental harms and risks. The long-term goals of the grant program are to help build the capacity of an affected community and create self-sustaining, community-based partnerships that will continue to improve local environmental in the future.

Application packages must be postmarked by midnight Monday, June 30, 2008. Guidance outlining the eligibility, purposes, goals and general procedures for the application and award are available on EPA’s Web site or by registering for a conference call being held June 18th between 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. (EDT). To register, please contact Kwabena Kyei-Aboagye at (617) 918-1609.

Environmental Justice is the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, national origin or income in the development, implementation and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations and policies.