NEW YORK—Fordham University’s Flourishing in Community initiative, in partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), is thrilled to announce a historic opportunity to provide communities with diverse funding opportunities for environmental justice-related projects after officially signing a contract last week.

Through a groundbreaking $40 million grant program funded by President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, this environmental initiative aims to lift up disadvantaged communities across New York, New Jersey, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and eight federally recognized Indian nations. These funds will empower local organizations to address environmental justice issues and create meaningful change.

A Transformative Initiative for Environmental Justice

Fordham University is proud to play a central role in this vital mission. The EPA has awarded a $50 million grant to Fordham’s Flourishing in Community, of which $40 million will go directly to community-based projects that address pressing environmental concerns, and $10 million will be used to create robust dissemination channels and support structures to ensure subgrantees have the tools to carry out their projects.

From local clean-up efforts to workforce development in clean energy, this initiative represents an unprecedented opportunity for community-based organizations to secure resources that will transform their communities.

“Fordham University is proud to serve as the Thriving Communities Grantmaker for EPA Region 2. As an institution deeply rooted in the Bronx, we are dedicated to advancing environmental justice for frontline communities, and the invaluable work of our partners and friends in the borough shapes our commitment,” said Dr. Julie L. Gafney, Associate Vice President of Strategic Mission Initiatives. “Our funding application will open later this month during Climate Week to support community-led environmental projects throughout New York, New Jersey, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands.”

A Collaborative Approach with Broad Impact

Flourishing in Community will work hand-in-hand with partners such as the New York Immigration Coalition around New York State, the New Jersey Alliance for Immigrant Justice, ConPRmetidos in Puerto Rico, Community Foundation of the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Business Initiative Corporation of New York to ensure wide-reaching access. By collaborating with regional organizations, Fordham University amplifies the voices of the communities most affected by climate change and incorporates their feedback to ensure the application process works for everyone.

“This is a tremendous opportunity for community-based organizations to take the lead in solving the environmental challenges they face daily,” said Surey I. Miranda, Director of Campus and Community Engagement. “Together, we’re building a future where every neighborhood can flourish.”

Congressman Richie Torres (NY-15), a staunch advocate for environmental justice and one of the key figures behind securing this funding for Fordham University, expressed his enthusiasm for the program.

“The $50 million grant to Fordham University for the Thriving Communities Grantmaker Program that I helped secure is a critical investment in the Bronx’s future, providing resources to foster community development, create clean energy jobs, and improve the quality of life for all Bronxites,” said Congressman Torres (NY-15). “I’m deeply grateful to see the EPA and Fordham move forward with this agreement, which will unlock tremendous opportunities for our borough as we work toward a more sustainable, thriving community.”

Empowering Organizations to Take Action

Community-based organizations are encouraged to apply for subgrants ranging from $75,000 to $350,000. These grants will fund initiatives such as environmental workforce development, air quality improvement, and emergency preparedness programs. With Fordham University’s leadership, this initiative will help forge a sustainable future while uplifting those most affected by environmental issues.

Projects will be evaluated by a Community Leadership Board, a participatory body representing Region 2, led by Wanda Salaman, Executive Director of Mothers on the Move.

“With strong Environmental and Community Activist Leadership, we ensure that everyone in our community has a fair and equitable chance to apply for this funding. It is especially important that disadvantaged communities, often the most affected by environmental and social inequities, are in leadership roles in this process. By having a voice in reviewing applications and shaping the direction of these initiatives, we can ensure that the funding reaches those who need it most and that our communities are leading the way toward a more just and sustainable future,” said Wanda Salamán, Chair, Community Leadership Board Flourishing in Community.

The application portal will open online for interested organizations by late September.

Community-based organizations in New York, New Jersey, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and eight federally recognized Indian nations can also take advantage of the EPA Disadvantaged Community Environmental and Climate Justice Program map online—an online tool available to visualize the urgency of addressing environmental stressors in front-line communities—to identify whether a community in their area is classified as disadvantaged and apply for a subgrant from Flourishing in Community.

Fordham University invites all eligible organizations to seize this remarkable opportunity and join a movement that champions environmental justice, innovation, and community resilience.