City now accepting grant applications

The city is taking applications for $28,000 worth of Love Your Block grants for neighborhood groups.

A neighborhood organization can receive up to $1,000 to complete a proposed project, such as upgrading playground equipment or installing a park bench or grill.

Four groups from each of the city’s seven wards — 28 groups — will be selected.

“Residents really are the best caretakers of their neighborhoods because they already have so much invested in where they live,” said Victor Turner, director of the Housing and Neighborhood Programs Department. “This grant program is meant to bring neighbors together and foster a sense of community while creating a point of pride.”

Organizations have to submit a proposal for an event or activity that would be hosted or completed between April and November. If chosen, the organization must send monthly status reports and before and after photos of the project.

Previous projects include a footbridge across a park pond, equipment for crime-watch programs, youth tutoring programs and construction of basketball courts.

Priority will be given to projects intended to be carried out within 500 feet of a school, projects that address vacant lots, those that improve overall neighborhood aesthetics or eliminate blight, and those that benefit a business district.

Applications are due by March 17 and are available at bit.ly/LRloveyourblock or by contacting Turner by email at vturner@littlerock.gov.