The Rapides Foundation is accepting proposals under its Diet and Physical Activity Community Program. This is the second round of grants under the program, which received an unprecedented amount of proposals in the first round.
A limited number of grants up to $25,000 each will be awarded for projects that encourage and improve physical activity and healthy eating among residents in nine Central Louisiana parishes: Allen, Avoyelles, Catahoula, Grant, LaSalle, Natchitoches, Rapides, Vernon and Winn. These grants are for nonprofits, government entities and faith-based community groups. The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. Aug. 15.
An open call for proposals in April generated an overwhelming response, prompting The Rapides Foundation to award more grants than it had anticipated. The Foundation received 32 proposals.
“The Foundation applauds Cenla’s determination to get healthy,” said Annette Beuchler, Director of Programs and Communications. “We were encouraged by the interest, and we look forward to seeing these projects come to fruition.” The projects are:
1. A.L. Hayward Sr., CDC – for playground equipment and recreation area for children, families and senior citizens in a public housing area in Bunkie.
2. Avoyelles 4-H Foundation – to build a covered structure for the community farmers market.
3. Cane River National Heritage Area – for three community gardens in Natchitoches and Natchez, La.
4. City of Natchitoches – for a walking trail with fitness stations.
5. Cloutierville Elementary/Middle School – for a walking trail.
6. LaSalle Recreation District 10 – for recreation equipment, including a splash pad, volleyball court, outdoor fitness center and horseshoe pits, at a recreation park in LaSalle Parish.
7. Louisiana State University at Alexandria – for improvements to the existing walking trail and community education classes addressing healthy cooking, eating and exercise.
8. Manna House – for capital improvements to enable preparation of fresh, nutritious foods.
9. Town of Jena – for a quarter-mile nature trail.
10. Town of Olla – for a community turn-key playground.
11. Town of Urania – for playground equipment.
12. Village of Hessmer – for playground equipment and fitness opportunities.
For more information about how to apply or to view the Request for Proposal, go to www.rapidesfoundation.org. For questions about this grant opportunity, please contact Program Officer Trayce Snow at 318.443.3394 or trayce@rapidesfoundation.org.
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