Governor McKee, First Lady Announce Fall 2026 Litter-Free Rhode Island Microgrant Applications Now Open
Published on Thursday, October 01, 2026
PROVIDENCE, RI — Governor Dan McKee, First Lady Susan McKee, and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) announced today that applications are open for the latest round of microgrants to support Fall 2026 cleanups through the First Lady’s Litter-Free Rhode Island program. This round of grant funding prioritizes beautification projects and cleanups throughout Rhode Island.
“Creating a cleaner state isn’t just a seasonal goal—it’s a year-round team effort,” said Governor Dan McKee. “We’re excited by the tremendous work this program has helped community groups and cities and towns accomplish in Rhode Island, and this fall’s grants will only continue to make our state a better place for residents and visitors to enjoy.”
“I’ve seen firsthand the importance these microgrants can have on cleanups and projects in our state, and there’s always work to be done,” said First Lady Susan McKee. “We’re picking up litter today for a cleaner tomorrow, and I’m excited to see the impact this next round of funding can have for our state.”
The program is accepting applications for microgrants of up to $500 each to qualified applicants who host volunteer cleanups and/or beautification projects, which will be completed no later than December 11, 2026. Applications will be accepted by DEM through October 30, 2026, and can be found here. Applicants do not need to apply for the full $500, and there is no match requirement.
Awards will be made based on the event and its scope (number of participants, scale of the suggested project or cleanup, etc.). Awards will be given out on a rolling basis and are issued through the Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank.
Funds from this microgrant may be used for equipment (work gloves, trash bags, and trash pickers), marketing (t-shirts, posters, signage, etc.), food and/or water for volunteers, and debris removal (dumpster and hauling fees, etc.). Schools, community groups, and municipal government divisions such as departments of public works, parks, and recreation may apply, but all applicants must provide proof of their nonprofit status.
“DEM is proud to be partnering with the Governor and First Lady on this important program, supporting their shared commitment to bringing communities together to care for the places we all call home,” said DEM Director Terry Gray. “These grants empower local organizations, neighbors, families, and volunteers in communities across Rhode Island to roll up their sleeves and make a meaningful difference right in their own neighborhoods. Together, we can inspire hundreds of Rhode Islanders in every city and town to take part in a statewide fall cleaning. Litter doesn’t just detract from the places where we live, work, and play; it can harm wildlife and pollute our land and waterways. We’re excited to once again work alongside communities across Rhode Island, the Governor, and First Lady to make this year’s clean-up effort a true statewide celebration of community pride and environmental stewardship.”
Once the trash cleanup is complete, DEM requires a “Cleanup Report,” which should include photographs, the number of participants, and the amount of material collected.
This round of microgrants marks the seventh round of funding made available through the program. Since 2024, the program has awarded more than $166,000 in microgrants to more than 100 community groups and municipalities that completed cleanups or projects.