REEDLEY – A variety of Reedley residents will get to experience a litter-free walk in nature, activities with friends and the excitement of winning a medal for their hard work, all thanks to microgrants provided by the city.
Community Services Director Sarah Reid said the Community Services Commission recommended the Reedley City Council award the microgrants — so named because of the smaller award amount — to four recreation-oriented community organizations. The council unanimously approved the recommendation at its meeting on Dec. 17 with little comment on the matter.
“The Community Services Department facilitates this grant program; it’s been around for many, many years,“ Reid said, “And it was designed to support local nonprofit organizations who support recreational activities here in Reedley.”
This year, the city budgeted $2,100 to provide six $350 grants; however, Reid said that because only four organizations applied for the grant program, the commission decided to award each organization $525 and exhaust the grant funds. Reedley Mayor Matthew Tuttle said he thought spreading out the rest of the funds was a great idea.
Grant awards went to Reedley Kings Canyon Youth Soccer, Reedley Senior Commission, Inc., Reedley Parks and Recreation Foundation and Reedley Little League.
The Reedley Kings Canyon Youth Soccer League will use the grant funds to purchase medals and plaques for their players, including special recognition plaques for players who are aging out of the league. Reedley Little League will use the money to provide six $60 scholarships to families who have multiple kids in the league in order to assist them with expenses related to league participation.
The Reedley Parks and Recreation Foundation, which sponsors the Reedley Parkway, will use the funds to support ongoing beautification efforts and upkeep of the parkway, including the replacement of historical plaques that go missing.
Finally, Reid said the Reedley Senior Commission will use the funds to offset the cost of the services it provides to older Reedley residents, specifically related to transportation. The commission assists with various senior activities in the city, including senior lunches and senior prom trips.
“They are very supportive with our senior services and senior activities here in Reedley,” Reid said.
