Michael S. Regan 16th Administrator, United States Environmental Protection Agency | Official Website
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced $19,944,576 in grant funding for Dillard University and its partner United Way of Southeast Louisiana. The grants aim to assist disadvantaged communities in addressing environmental and climate justice challenges by reducing pollution, increasing community climate resilience, and building community capacity. This funding is part of President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, which represents the largest single investment in environmental and climate justice to date.
A total of $19 million will be allocated to projects in St. Tammany and Washington Parishes. These initiatives include improving transportation access by providing up to 300 families with e-bikes, expanding bike-sharing programs, and installing EV chargers. Additionally, several public buildings will be retrofitted with energy-efficient HVAC systems, solar panels, and energy storage to serve as community resilience hubs during emergencies. Dillard University will also introduce new non-degree certificate programs in clean energy and climate resilience.
The Community Change Grants Program's rolling application process is informed by stakeholder engagement and community feedback. Applications are being accepted through November 21, 2024, with selections announced on a rolling basis.
EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan stated, “Our ability to deliver tangible results for communities depends on listening to them and developing innovative solutions through inclusive stakeholder engagement.” He added that the first cohort of community partnerships has been selected thanks to President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act.
Regional Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance highlighted the program's benefits: “The Community Change Grants Program has benefited disadvantaged communities through projects that reduce pollution and increase community resilience.”
The Inflation Reduction Act provides $3 billion for EPA grants aimed at assisting disadvantaged communities while offering technical assistance. These efforts align with President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative to ensure that 40 percent of certain federal investments benefit marginalized communities burdened by pollution.
Applications for the Community Change Grants Program are open until November 21, 2024. Interested parties are encouraged to apply promptly for technical assistance before the deadline on August 16, 2024.
For more information about the grants program or environmental justice at EPA, visit their webpage or follow updates on social media platforms such as X (formerly Twitter).
