Do you have an idea to make Nantasket Beach better this summer?
Save the Harbor/Save the Bay and the Department of Conservation and Recreation are now seeking Better Beaches Program grant proposals to support free events and activities on the region’s public beaches this year.
In 2021, the Better Beaches Program invested nearly $300,000 in 67 organizations in nine waterfront communities from Nahant to Nantasket. In turn, those organizations ran 188 events, including festivals, movie nights, concerts, beach parties, fitness classes, sailing and kayaking sessions, speaker series, and summer programs.
“Nothing brings more life to our beaches than free events and programs like these,” said state Rep. Joan Meschino of Hull, a member of the Metropolitan Beaches Commission. “They are particularly important for kids and families this year, as we put the pandemic behind us and return to the beach. Thanks to Save the Harbor/Save the Bay for making it happen.”
Better Beaches Program grants range from $1,500-$5,000 with a typical grant of $2,500, and in some cases, Save the Harbor may consider larger grants. This summer, Save the Harbor will reserve $25,000 of Better Beaches funds to be intentionally awarded to organizations and individuals who empower, amplify, and invest in community members of color, members of the queer community and people with disabilities.
To apply for a grant or ask questions about the Better Beaches Program, contact Maya Smith at smith@savetheharbor.org. Applications are due by April 22. Save the Harbor’s Better Beaches Grants Committee will review the proposals and present the checks at the Better Beaches Award Reception on June 11 at Boston’s Fish Pier.
This year, the public is invited to participate in the process and help choose some of this year’s events. Cast your vote at this link https://tinyurl.com/2022BeachBallot.
“Save the Harbor has recommitted ourselves to equity and anti-racism in our programs and on our beaches,” Save the Harbor Executive Director Chris Mancini said. “We are excited to see the creative ways organizations and individuals will be activating our beaches this summer.”
