Boston Chron - Boston: Applications Open for Spooky Streets and Fall and Harvest Grant

Trending...

~ Boston Mayor Michelle Wu and the Community Engagement Cabinet's Office of Civic Organizing have announced the opening of applications for the Spooky Streets Grant Program. This program aims to provide residents and community groups with a mini-grant of $300 to help them host Halloween and Fall and Harvest block parties. The grant will cover expenses such as candy, pumpkins, decorations, and face paint, making it easier and more affordable for neighborhoods to come together and celebrate.

Mayor Wu expressed her excitement about bringing back this popular program, which has been a hit among families and neighborhoods in Boston. She believes that these block parties not only bring joy to the community but also promote unity among residents. "I look forward to seeing the creativity of our residents shine through their costumes and decorations this fall!" she said.

This initiative builds on the Mayor's efforts to make Boston a welcoming home for everyone. It also aligns with the city's goal of creating fun and safe programming for kids and families to enjoy in their neighborhoods.

Last summer, the Mayor's Office of Civic Organizing distributed 110 grants totaling $61,700 across 18 neighborhoods in Boston through the City's Block Party Grant Program. This was made possible by funding from The Cummings Foundation, which supports the Mayor's efforts to activate neighborhoods with events that bring people together.

More on Boston Chron

Director of the Office of Civic Organizing Nathalia Benitez-Perez expressed her excitement about expanding the reach of the Spooky Streets Grant Program this year with support from The Cummings Foundation. She believes that these grants empower communities to celebrate together and create lasting memories for kids and families across Boston. "The Spooky Streets Grant gives neighbors the chance to transform their streets into festive, traffic-free spaces and build new traditions during the Fall and Harvest season," she said.

Residents who are interested in applying for this grant must first apply for a Play Street Closing Permit here. They will then be prompted to apply for the $300 Spooky Streets mini-grant. It is important to note that applying for a permit does not guarantee a grant, and residents must apply for the mini-grant separately to be considered.

To be eligible for the grant, block parties must be free and open to the public. They cannot be hosted in parks or private lots and must take place on a public street. The block parties must also be held during the week leading up to Halloween, from Friday, October 24 to Sunday, November 2. However, they do not have to be Halloween-themed.

Dorchester resident Philip Cheng shared his experience with last year's grant, saying that it made it possible for their neighborhood to come together in a special way. "Our block party definitely elevated our typical Halloween—it gave neighbors a chance to connect, enjoy public spaces and strengthen our sense of community," he said. He hopes that this program will continue for many years to come and create a sense of belonging that lasts beyond the event itself.

More on Boston Chron

Brianna Millor, Chief of the Community Engagement Cabinet, also expressed her support for this program and how it has become an integral part of Boston's community-building efforts. "Spooky Streets and Harvest Season grants inspire residents to carry the joy of community into the fall," she said.

The City of Boston has partnered with the Mayor's Office of New Urban Mechanics (MONUM) to streamline the block party permit application process and make it more efficient for constituents. They have also expanded what activities are allowed at block parties without additional permits, including potluck food, tables and chairs, 10 by 10 tents, and more. A Block Party Planning Guide is available to help residents understand the planning process for hosting these events in their neighborhoods.

The deadline to apply for a Spooky Streets grant is Monday, September 22 at 5:00 p.m. Residents can find the application here (along with the necessary application for a Play Street Closing Permit), and they can visit boston.gov/spooky-streets to learn more about the program. With the support of Mayor Wu and the City of Boston, these block parties are sure to bring joy and unity to neighborhoods across the city this fall.

Filed Under: Government, City

0 Comments

Latest on Boston Chron