West 132nd Street Harlem Greening

Community members, local businesses, and neighbors of the surrounding area have been significantly impacted by the last 16 months of the Covid-19 pandemic. The green spaces of our neighborhood have also been affected. More than anything, people are beginning to see the importance of trees, plants, grass, and green areas around our homes. The trees and plants in our sidewalks and medians have been neglected and forgotten. Several trees have died and been cut down or replaced with younger trees that are already dying. Litter is blowing in the beds/boxes and getting caught in weeds. Studies have shown that the effects of Covid-19 disproportionally impact low-income communities of color. Trees and plants are not only good for our environment; they also affect our mental health. This coming year is a year to heal and refresh our neighborhood's plants, trees, and streets to improve the neighborhood's overall wellbeing. Our project will clean out the sidewalk and median beds, add mulch/compost, and plant new plants. Our project will also maintain the beds regularly to prevent weeds and litter from returning.

After receiving the funds, we would start with advertising and public awareness to get neighbors to join our project. Then, based on delivery time and product availability, we plan to have our first workday. By having other workdays before September 2022, we plan to (1) completely clear out the beds of litter and weeds. (2) We would then be able to plant the bulbs and plants. (3) After planting is complete, we will add mulch and compost to help make the soil nutrient-rich and provide a uniform aesthetic. (4) The grant will also help maintain the beds and make sure litter and weeds do not return.

Harlem is a neighborhood of working professionals, young families, the elderly, individuals experiencing homelessness, single men and women, and young people from all walks of life and backgrounds. In this community, studies show that health issues, drug addiction, incarceration rates, and unstable housing are just a few of the many problems that many are facing daily at disproportional rates. This project aims to provide people with a beautiful relaxing neighborhood to rest and recharge. Instead of looking out of our windows and looking at overgrown weeds and trash, we want to see flowers, trees, bushes, and plants. This project is also a good opportunity for neighbors to come together and work towards a common goal, encouraging young people to step up and take action in their community and making strides towards a cleaner and healthier lifestyle by providing the neighborhood with more green space