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Maine group selected for $9,800 in EPA Environmental Education Grant

Release Date: 08/20/2008
Contact Information: Kristen Conroy, (617) 918- 1069

(Boston, Mass. – August 20, 2008) – An after-school program in Hinckley, Maine, was recently awarded a $9,804 environmental education grant from the US Environmental Protection Agency.

Good Will Home Association, which received the grant, will use the funds to teach children in kindergarten through fifth grade and their families about Maine’s natural habitats, wildlife diversity and environmental stewardship. The 12-week after-school sessions and the Saturday family exploration sessions will address environmental issues created by road salt, rubbish, and invasive plants and animals, as well as potential solutions and outcomes.

This grant was among nine environmental education grants totaling $189,000 chosen this year by EPA’s New England office from among 65 applicants. These grants fund projects that focus on improving teaching skills for educators, typically through workshops; educating teachers, students or the public about the environment and potential health problems stemming from environmental pollution; helping states or communities to develop and deliver environmental education programs; or promoting environmental careers among students.

“Education plays a central role in protecting our environment,” said Robert Varney, regional administrator for EPA's New England Office. “Children and parents who learn more about their environment know better what is needed to address the challenges of creating a clean and healthy environment.”

More Information is available from EPA Environmental Education resources in New England (http://epa.gov/region1/education/index.html)