The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded a $19.3 million Community Change Grant to Lee County and the Collaboratory over a three-year period. This transformative funding aims to strengthen disadvantaged communities by addressing environmental challenges and improving disaster preparedness.
Building Resilient Communities
The grant will support initiatives to increase community resilience, reduce pollution, and enhance the capacity of local organizations to serve residents during emergencies, such as hurricanes. Central to this effort is the creation of a network of community resilience hubs, designed to provide both everyday resources and critical support during disasters.
What Are Resilience Hubs?
Resilience hubs are community spaces that:
- Provide supplies and social services for daily needs.
- Transition into disaster response centers offering vital information, emergency support, and health supplies during crises.
Four organizations will serve as the foundation for this network:
- The Collaboratory
- Franklin Park Elementary School
- IMAG History & Science Center
- Pine Manor Community Center
Key Objectives of the Project
- Strengthening Local Organizations:
- Equip resilience hubs with supplies and resources.
- Build capacity for local groups offering emergency services.
- Emergency Preparedness Plans:
- Help communities develop robust emergency plans.
- Enhance coordination for an all-of-community response during severe events.
- Stormwater and Infrastructure Improvements:
- Focus on upgrades along Ten Mile Canal to improve flood management and reduce pollution.
- Workforce Development:
- Launch programs to train workers in constructing energy-efficient and resilient homes, supporting both local employment and sustainable housing.
A Collaborative Effort for Lasting Impact
This project is a joint effort between Lee County, Collaboratory, and several community partners, leveraging resources to improve emergency response and long-term environmental resilience. By combining infrastructure improvements, workforce training, and community engagement, the initiative aims to create a safer, more sustainable future for residents.
For more information, visit the Collaboratory’s website or Lee County’s emergency management resources.
