September 24, 2008

Charlotte, NC -- City of Charlotte Neighborhood Matching Grants program is offering a special grant for tree banding projects. Neighborhoods located in the cankerworm infestation problem area may be eligible for this grant.

Organizations interested in applying for funding should attend one of the following workshops:

October 1 -  6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. at  Independence Library, 6015 Conference Drive

October 4:  9:30 a.m-11 a.m. at Old City Hall, 600 East Trade Street

October 7:  6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. at Freedom Regional Library, 1230 Alleghany Street

October 13:  6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m. at Hickory Grove Rec. Ctr, 6709 Pence Road (adjacent to Hickory Grove Elementary School)

The Neighborhood Matching Grants program will award funds up to $3,000 to eligible neighborhood organizations to help support neighborhood tree banding projects. Last year's banding and the aerial spray in the spring were effective in reducing the cankerworm populations; however, they still exist and are putting area trees at risk. The tree banding is most effective when the populations are low, so continued banding is strongly encouraged.

Eligible entities include organized neighborhood associations, business associations and neighborhood-based community development corporations operating in neighborhoods with median household income up to $64,219. Those located in the areas of highest infestation may also be eligible.

For more information or to check your organization's eligibility, contact Tracy Greene at 704-336-3955 or visit our website.