California might have its fair share of projects to keep the youth and elders engaged, but New York is stepping up its game, big time. Governor Kathy Hochul has just rolled out a hefty $100 million program that's all about putting community back into, well, the community. Nicknamed NY BRICKS, this capital grant initiative, announced earlier this June, is directed at aiding municipalities and nonprofit orgs in crafting community centers—think senior citizen hangouts and kid-friendly zones that aim to boost physical health and mental wellness—and a sense of belonging, according to a release obtained by the official Governor's Office website.
In a bold move, that the budget of fiscal year 2026 is securing, these grants can go up to $15 million for all sorts of development phases: from the preliminary sketches to the hammers hitting nails. But not just anyone can grab this cash. The initiative is gunning for the underdogs in underserved communities and those offering crucial affordable services like childcare and eldercare. "Every New Yorker deserves a safe, welcoming space to grow, connect, and thrive," Governor Hochul told the Governor's Office, emphasizing the drive towards equitable spaces that nurture every generation.
Interested parties can start circling July 14 on their calendars; it's when the application window opens, until August 15. If you're in the game, expect awards announcements post November 1. A quick review process focuses on projects’ need, impact, and viability, and there's a catch: applicants need to bring something to the table—a 20 percent match of the project cost. Plus, nonprofits best be prequalified in the Statewide Financial System before they hit 'submit' on their grant application, as stated on the Governor's Office website.
It's not just about the buildings—though those are key. DASNY's big boss, Robert J. Rodriguez, said this move is "foundations for healthier, more connected neighborhoods," amidst appreciating Governor Hochul's leadership in this funding crusade, as per the official Governor's Office publication. And if you think that's all, buckle up. There's more where that came from, with Hochul's 'Unplug and Play' initiative also earmarking a sweet $67.5 million for playgrounds and $90 million for NY SWIMS, a wanderlust-inducing initiative to splash around in new and revamped swimming facilities. So, for the ones with any burning queries, now's the time. The open application period for question kicks off June 5, with a video webinar to follow on June 25, answering all those early bird questions and walking applicants through the ropes, or so the word is on the street from the Governor's office.
And as if Randy Simons, the acting honcho of NYS Parks, could keep quiet on this. He's all in, lauding the Governor for her forward-thinking push towards New Yorkers getting a healthy dose of well-being. And let's be real, a break from life's non-stop craziness isn't too shabby of an idea. Just be sure to get your ducks in a row and questions piped through the NY BRICKS SurveyMonkey before the clock strikes 3:00 p.m. on June 27. Then, all that info will be ready for a July 11 rollout, as shared on the Governor's Office website and NY BRICKS web pages.
