The Foundation annually gives out thousands of dollars in grants, with projects ranging from a watershed management plan, rain and community gardens, a green pavilion with a living roof, an invertebrate conservation plan, wildlife habitat conservation, a plastic bag reduction campaign, an environmental resource inventory and green team capacity building. 

“We are very exited to have gotten this grant,” said Noone, who is also a Councilwoman in the Borough as well as a member of the Washington Business Improvement District’s Board of Directors. “The money will go towards the revegetation of the two areas we’ve identified and the overall beautification of our community.”

“These grants support green teams and municipalities working at the local level to build vibrant and sustainable communities,” said Randall Solomon, executive director for Sustainable Jersey. He extended his congratulations to all of the towns that received grants. “The grants we awarded will build capacity as municipalities move sustainability programs forward and work toward the goal of a more sustainable New Jersey.”

The all-volunteer Green Team has also been very instrumental in the success of the town’s weekly farmers market held every Saturday from June through September by the Pocket Park. The market features fresh produce including fruits and vegetables, flowers,  organic meats and other environmentally friendly items.  

The PSEG Foundation has contributed over $1.3 million dollars in funding to the Sustainable Jersey Small Grants Program. “We are proud to partner with Sustainable Jersey to support and help fund projects that provide sustainable neighborhoods, economic development and STEM education to empower a brighter future. These projects will have a lasting impact to neighborhoods throughout New Jersey,” said Ellen Lambert, president of the PSEG Foundation.  

Proposals were evaluated by an independent Blue Ribbon Selection Committee. The Sustainable Jersey grants are intended to help municipalities make progress toward a sustainable future in general, and specifically toward Sustainable Jersey certification. Currently, 79 percent, or 444 of New Jersey’s 565 municipalities are participating in the municipal certification program. 

Sustainable Jersey is a nonprofit organization that provides tools, training and financial incentives to support communities as they pursue sustainability programs. Currently, 79 percent, or 444 of New Jersey’s 565 municipalities are participating in the municipal certification program and 261 school districts and 642 schools are participating in the Sustainable Jersey for Schools certification program.