The Love Your Block Mini-Grants program is revitalizing the Whispering Pines neighborhood in Port St. Lucie, awarding nearly $20,000 to 19 community projects. This initiative, supported by the City of Port St. Lucie and the Bloomberg Center for Public Innovation at Johns Hopkins University, aims to foster community pride and improve neighborhood aesthetics through resident-driven projects.
Love Your Block Mini-Grants Empower Port St. Lucie Residents
Recently, the City of Port St. Lucie announced the winners of the first round of the Love Your Block Mini-Grants. From 32 applications, 19 projects were selected based on their potential to positively impact the Whispering Pines community.
The selected projects align with Port St. Lucie’s strategic vision of becoming a Smart and Connected City. They encourage resident involvement and civic pride through tangible neighborhood improvements, similar to the new home construction initiatives that are transforming the area.
Highlighted Projects Enhance Whispering Pines Community
Among the awarded projects, residents can expect improvements such as:
- Installation of two Free Little Libraries
- Upgrades to benches and pet waste stations
- A neighborhood Health and Wellness Fair
- New outdoor seating at local businesses
- Lighting enhancements for better safety
- Home exterior upgrades including fresh paint, new front doors, and landscaping
All projects are scheduled for completion by mid-August 2025, providing immediate benefits to residents.
Mayor Shannon Martin Emphasizes Community Collaboration
Port St. Lucie Mayor Shannon Martin highlighted the importance of the Love Your Block Mini-Grants in strengthening community ties and enhancing neighborhood pride.
“As Port St. Lucie continues to invest in resident-driven solutions, Love Your Block plays a vital role in fostering collaboration between local government and community members,” Mayor Martin stated. “By providing mini-grants and hands-on support, the program helps residents transform public spaces, strengthen neighborhood connections, and build a greater sense of ownership and pride in their communities.”
Bloomberg Center for Public Innovation Supports Port St. Lucie Initiatives
The Love Your Block program is supported by the Bloomberg Center for Public Innovation at Johns Hopkins University, which promotes public sector innovation worldwide. Launched in 2021 in partnership with Bloomberg Philanthropies, the center provides resources and expertise to ensure the success of local improvement projects.
Future Phases of Love Your Block in PSL
Following the completion of the initial projects, future phases of the Love Your Block program will include additional city-led public projects. These projects will incorporate feedback from residents and stakeholders, furthering the collaborative spirit of the initiative. Residents can look forward to developments similar to those seen in Saint Lucie West.
Residents interested in participating or learning more about the program can visit the official Port St. Lucie city website.
Frequently Asked Questions About Love Your Block Mini-Grants
What is the Love Your Block Mini-Grants program?
The Love Your Block Mini-Grants program provides small grants to Port St. Lucie residents and community groups for neighborhood improvement projects. It encourages community pride and involvement through resident-led initiatives.
How much funding can residents receive through Love Your Block?
Residents and community groups typically receive grants ranging from a few hundred to a couple thousand dollars. The recent round awarded nearly $20,000 across 19 selected projects.
Are there specific types of projects funded by Love Your Block?
Yes, funded projects often include neighborhood beautification, community events, safety improvements, and enhancements to public spaces. Examples include installing Free Little Libraries, improving benches, and hosting wellness fairs.
Can residents outside Whispering Pines apply for Love Your Block grants?
The current round focused specifically on Whispering Pines, but future phases will likely include other neighborhoods within Port St. Lucie. Residents should regularly check the city’s website for updates.
Where are completed Love Your Block projects located?
Completed projects from the current round are located throughout the Whispering Pines neighborhood in Port St. Lucie. Future projects may expand to other neighborhoods within the city, such as those in Riverland.
Interested in revitalizing your neighborhood with Love Your Block Mini-Grants? Download our FREE guide .
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