Maryland PIRG Foundation
$25,000 / 2010 / Community Development
Toward continued support of the Smart Energy Solutions Program, a statewide campaign to promote energy policies focused on energy efficiency and conservation. Maryland Public Interest Group will provide research and analysis on the implementation of new utility energy-efficiency programs, and seek to measure the effectiveness of the programs in meeting state goals for reduction of energy use. The campaign will send the message that it is state policy to provide funding for energy policies and programs aimed at lowering residential energy costs, providing relief to the lowest income customers, creating jobs, and reducing the negative public health impacts of pollution and carbon dioxide emissions from energy generation and distribution.
Baltimore Green Spaceᅠ
$5,000 / 2010 / Community Development
Toward an internship for the Baltimore Green Space – Green Sites Project, designed to preserve and support community gardens, pocket parks, and other community-managed open spaces in Baltimore City.
Mi Casa, Inc.
$25,000 / 2010 / Community Development
Toward start-up costs and the first phase of the Johnston Square Homeownership Project. Initiated by the Housing Authority of Baltimore City, the project focuses on renovating vacant houses, and increasing homeownership and employment for local contractors and residents.
Civil Justice, Inc.
$90,000 / 2009 / Community Development
For support of an initiative, “Filling a Vital Gap in Foreclosure Prevention Through Pro Se Bankruptcy”. In addition to counseling, the project provides legal assistance in an effort to create a plan to assist homeowners facing foreclosure.
Food Research & Action Center
$20,000 / 2009 / Community Development
Toward support of the Maryland Hunger Solutions’ pilot project to enable low-income households to purchase fresh produce at two Baltimore City farmers’ markets using their federal nutrition program benefits. The pilot will provide outreach and incentives to eligible households and the equipment and training for the farmers’ markets to accept payment through electronic benefit transfers and debit cards.