ALBANY, NY (April 24, 2025) — The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) awarded $2 million in Environmental Justice Community Impact Grants to 21 community-based organizations, including a key initiative in New Rochelle, to address environmental and public health concerns, the agency announced Thursday.
In New Rochelle, the Energy Justice Law and Policy Center received $100,000 for its “New Rochelle Environmental Justice Initiative.” The project aims to enhance air and water quality through the Air of Truth air quality and environmental justice campaign and the Eco Ambassadors coastal marine science program. These efforts focus on educating the public, raising awareness, and developing solutions for clean and green infrastructure.
“DEC’s Community Impact Grants support the crucial work of people on the ground working tirelessly to lift up their communities and provide a healthier, more sustainable future,” DEC Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton said. “DEC remains committed to supporting organizations advancing environmental justice and looks forward to working with this newest round of grantees and their partners to improve environmental outcomes across the state.”
The grants, funded by the state’s Environmental Protection Fund (EPF), assist communities facing disproportionate environmental challenges. Since 2006, DEC’s Office of Environmental Justice has awarded nearly $17 million to 257 projects statewide. Other recipients include Long Beach Latino Civic Association, Inc., which received $100,000 for its “Pollution Mitigation Leads to Health Benefits” project, and The Bronx is Blooming, awarded $100,000 for its youth-focused “Program for Leaders Advancing their Community’s Environment – PLACE.”
“An equitable transition to a green economy is accelerated by environmental justice efforts like those announced today, which work to reduce pollution and improve the quality of life in communities across New York,” said Doreen M. Harris, president and CEO of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority.
Governor Kathy Hochul’s 2025-26 Executive Budget proposes maintaining $400 million in EPF funding to support environmental justice, land acquisition, and water quality projects. DEC anticipates additional funding rounds later in 2025 and encourages not-for-profits to register in the Statewide Financial System to apply.