Nonprofit organizations are encouraged to apply for “Love Your Block” grants to support volunteer-led street block revitalization projects. The grants will support twenty projects that revitalize green spaces, transform blighted areas and advocate for quality open space.

Those selected for the grants will receive a $500 gift card from Home Depot to purchase supplies and equipment necessary to implement the projects. City of Houston community partner Keep Houston Beautiful will support the projects by providing supplies, tools and other resources to offset costs. A grant review committee will provide guidance to align funded projects with existing city priorities.

The grant application deadline is Friday, May 11, 2012. Applicant groups must have nonprofit status. Eligible groups include block, neighborhood and tenant associations as well as community garden clubs and religious-based organizations. Grantees will be notified on Friday, May 25, 2012. Funded projects must be completed between June 1 and December 31, 2012.

To apply for a “Love Your Block” grant, visit HoustonSERVICE.org. For more information, email [email protected] or call 832-393-0971. The new grant program is part of Houston SERVICE under the Mayor’s Volunteer Initiatives Program in the Department of Neighborhoods.