January 16, 2019
DETROIT – Detroit Future City (DFC)’s Working with Lots Program is issuing another round of grants to transform vacant land into intentional, productive, and well-maintained landscapes.
Qualified applicants will receive between $5,000 and $20,000 after choosing one of eight designs found in the Field Guide to Working with Lots, an easy-to-follow manual on how to revitalize vacant land into enjoyable landscapes that help to better manage stormwater.
Now in its fourth year, the Working with Lots Program continues to look for Detroit-based partners who are passionate about improving the way their neighborhoods look and feel.
“We’re excited to support the creativity and resilience of Detroiters once again this year,” says Shari Williams, Manager of the Working with Lots Program. “When communities come together to develop new skills and promote equitable land re-utilization, economic growth and neighborhood development, it helps improve the quality of life for all Detroiters.”
The Working with Lots Program connects Detroit community groups, businesses, and institutions to resources to learn, collaborate and practice land stewardship in Detroit. Ideal applicants include businesses, nonprofits, neighborhood associations, youth development groups and experienced gardeners who either own or have permission to redevelop the vacant land.
DFC has provided more than $230,000 in grants to 33 organizations over the past three years. Past grantees include the Southwest Detroit Business Association and the Yorkshire Woods Community Organization.
For those interested in applying for this year’s grants, DFC will host an information session on January 22 at 5:30 pm and January 24 at 3 pm. The sessions will take place at DFC’s office, 2990 W. Grand Blvd. Suite #2, Detroit, MI 48202. For more information about this program, including to sign up for a session and to submit a proposal, visit www.detroitfuturecity.com/wwl-2019.