Union County Launches New Stem Educational Growth Grant for 2024 Plant a Seed Program Award Recipients

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce the launch of the New STEM Educational Growth Grant, aimed at further enriching the impact of garden-based education initiatives. This grant is an extension of the Plant-A-Seed Program and will offer additional resources to 2024 awardees to develop educational programming in agriculture, food science, nutrition, and sustainability.

"We are so excited to introduce the New STEM Educational Growth Grant, which marks a significant milestone for Union County as we continue to prioritize STEM education and community engagement," said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. "The introduction of this grant highlights the Board's commitment to fostering creativity, innovation, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills among the youth and communities of Union County."

The Plant-A-Seed Program is administered through the Office of Open Space, Recreation & Historic Preservation Trust Fund, which has been instrumental in promoting environmental awareness and education in Union County.

By investing in STEM-based education, Union County aims to provide opportunities for hands-on learning experiences that are crucial for the development of the next generation of leaders and innovators. Through this grant option, awardees will have the means to create impactful educational programming that aligns with the principles of STEM education.

"Building upon the success of our previous grant programs, which have supported a total of 83 school and community garden projects, we have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of garden-based education," said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Chairman of the Union County Open Space Trust Fund. "Not only have these grants helped our students and residents cultivate healthy habits, but they have also strengthened bonds within our communities, bringing neighbors closer together through shared experiences and a shared commitment to sustainability. As we start this new initiative, I eagerly anticipate the positive impact it will have on the creative minds of our students, developing their innovative ideas and bringing them to fruition, further enriching our educational landscape and resident enthusiasm."

All 2024 applicants meeting the established criteria will be considered for the STEM Educational Growth Grant, which will be awarded based on the completed application, number of applications received, and locations of communities served.

Applications for the STEM Educational Growth Grant are due by Monday, June 10, 2024. Interested parties can access the application and learn more about the grant program by visiting the official website at www.ucnj.org/stem-educational-growth-grant/.