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rethink/: A Newsletter from the Office of Sustainability
Graphic of a diverse array of people working together in a garden with the sun rising in the background.

Apply for a Food Justice Mini Grant

To support communities in their efforts to grow, sell, and eat healthy food, the City of Austin’s Office of Sustainability is now accepting applications for the Food Justice Mini Grants program. The program offers grants of up to $3,000 to support community-driven solutions led by those most negatively impacted by the food system. The grant was launched in solidarity with celebrations around the Juneteenth holiday, which commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African-Americans in the US. 

Non-profits, schools, for-profit businesses, homeowner associations, faith-based groups, grassroots initiatives, and more are eligible to apply for a grant. Examples of funding projects could include: 

  • Innovative food production methods
  • Fresh food markets or affordable food retail
  • Workforce development in the food supply chain
  • Low-cost home meal or grocery delivery services 
  • Community events centered on food systems or food justice

Last year, the City funded 20 organizations working on projects ranging from community-based “free fridges” to gardening workshops led by and for people of color. Any applicant that shares an intersectional lens and wants to build food justice in Austin is encouraged to apply by July 22.
LEARN MORE AND APPLY NOW
Leatha stands in a field holding a chicken.

Meet Net-Zero: Hero Leatha Floyd
Meet our newest Net-Zero Hero: Leatha Floyd, Genesis Gardens Coordinator with Mobile Loaves & Fishes. In addition to being a staff member, Leatha is also a resident of Community First! Village, a 51-acre development of Mobile Loaves & Fishes where sustainability is woven into the fabric of daily life.

"I have the best job in the world. It’s my favorite job," says Leatha. "Most people in their lifetime don’t ever get to do a job that they love. But I actually have a job that I love. This is my dream job."

We met up with Leatha at Genesis Gardens to chat about what it means to her to work in the gardens, her journey to Community First! Village, and more.
LEARN MORE ABOUT LEATHA
Do you know a sustainability superstar who should be recognized as a Net-Zero Hero? Send your nominations to sustainability@austintexas.gov.
Graphic with a diverse array of people standing in front of a sunrise with text that reads "Apply to be a Community Climate Ambassador"

Community Climate Ambassador applications extended through June 26

Are you interested in climate change and environmental justice? Do you enjoy meaningfully engaging with members of your community? Consider becoming a Community Climate Ambassador!

Through the paid six-month program, Ambassadors will learn about environmental justice and racial equity, conduct community engagement, and design Community Action Projects that facilitate action in their communities and support the equitable implementation of Austin’s Climate Equity Plan. Project topics could include sustainable buildings, energy use, housing, anti-displacement, transportation, climate resilience, access to nature, and more.

Applications are encouraged from organizations directly working with communities most impacted by the effects of climate change, including low-income communities and communities of color. If this sounds like you or someone you know, please apply by Sunday, June 26.
LEARN MORE AND APPLY
A student plants seeds in a garden bed at Mendez Middle School.

Growing Gardens, Growing Community at Mendez Middle School
Time spent outside leads to happier, healthier, and smarter kids. With the help of the City of Austin’s Bright Green Future Grants Program, Mendez Middle School was able to revitalize its school gardens to offer fresh vegetables and produce to students and families. With their expanded gardens, the students at Mendez are learning the benefits of time in nature.
 
Learn more about the City of Austin Office of Sustainability and the Bright Green Future Grants Program at www.austintexas.gov/brightgreenfuture.
WATCH THE VIDEO
A hand holds a sticker illustrating downtown Austin.

WELCOME, NEW GREEN BUSINESS LEADERS
We'd like to extend a warm welcome to our newest Austin Green Business Leaders. These companies have joined our growing community of Austin-based businesses that are committed to protecting our environment:
 
•  Just Right Design - Gold
•  Heron - Silver
Graphic of two superheroes that reads "Austin's Planet Protectors"

BECOME A PLANET PROTECTOR!

Hey, kids! This summer, join the Office of Sustainability at your local library to learn from the Planet Protectors as they share important tips and lessons on how to take better care of the planet.

The Planet Protectors — Commander Sustainability, Captain Airiel, Hydro Crusader, and Agent Leaf — will help kids of all ages understand the importance of water conservation, healthy eating habits, clean air, and much more.
SEE THE SCHEDULE

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