Southampton Town offers youth project grants

Southampton Town is looking for young people for its second annual Youth Community Service Challenge.

Individuals or groups can apply for grants of $250 each for community service projects. In all, $2,250 will be awarded.

Last year, the projects were varied. Among them: planting gardens and donating the food to a food pantry in Sag Harbor and a school lunch program in Southampton; cleaning up a basketball court in Tuckahoe; conducting a small sailing regatta in Westhampton for the handicapped; and holding a bike safety “rodeo” for younger children.

The idea for the program was inspired by first lady Michelle Obama’s call for youth community service, a town spokeswoman said.

“Volunteer service creates an opportunity for young people to interact with and support members of our community they might not otherwise have a chance to work with — seniors and veterans, for example — and to experience a joint sense of purpose and contribution,” Southampton Supervisor Anna Throne-Holst said in a news release.

Eligible applicants must be sponsored by an organization, such as the Scouts, Civil Air Patrol or Junior Firefighters; clubs and groups with adult leadership such as school clubs, faith-based youth groups and community organizations are also eligible.

Projects must show that the youth are an integral part — from planning to implementation.
Residents interested in the program can call 631-702-2417 or visit the town’s website at www.southamptontownny.gov/youthbureau.

Applications must be returned by March 9. Awards will be granted by April 1.