Faith in Place presents tree grant opportunity for underserved communities across Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin

Faith in Place, a multifaith-led environmental nonprofit organization, recently announced a significant funding opportunity for community organizations and houses of worship located in Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin.

Up to 85 grants, each ranging up to $30,000, are now available to help plant and maintain trees in environmental justice communities across the tri-state region, with applications being accepted through Nov. 21, 2024.

Funded through the U.S. Forest Service as part of the Inflation Reduction Act, this unprecedented grant will help to create more equitable and sustainable neighborhoods by increasing tree canopy cover in historically disenfranchised communities.

Faith in Place will re-grant a total of $1.6 million across Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin over a four-year period, providing financial support for tree equity projects and workforce development opportunities in partnership with community-based organizations, houses of worship and other local partners.

Increasing tree canopy works to address environmental injustice by cooling urban areas, improving local air quality and sequestering carbon — while also fostering more vibrant, healthy communities by creating shared green spaces.

“We see our faith partners as pillars in their communities, like towering trees that provide shelter, shade and nourishment for all,” said Rev. Brian Sauder, CEO of Faith in Place, at a grant celebration event. “This initiative is about more than trees; it’s about empowering our communities to thrive sustainably for generations.”

In response to feedback from early applicants, Faith in Place has also worked with the U.S. Forest Service to expand eligibility for the program, allowing more organizations to apply.

The updated eligibility criteria include:

1. Project Location: Tree planting projects must be located within Census-designated environmental justice communities (CEJST), though the applicant’s organization address does not need to be located within these areas. Written permission from property owners is required.

2. Property Types: Trees may be planted on residential, public and private properties in CEJST communities, with the property owner’s written consent.

For more information on the grant, additional eligibility requirements, and to apply, please visit Faith in Place’s informational grant page, www.faithinplace.org/tree-canopy-community-grant. Applications are expected to close on Nov. 21.

Faith in Place is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and the proud Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin affiliate of Interfaith Power & Light. Faith in Place empowers people of diverse faiths and spiritualities to be leaders in advancing environmental and racial justice — providing resources to educate, connect and advocate for healthier communities.