EPA is making approximately $2 million available in 2011 to reduce pollution at the local level through the Community Action for a Renewed Environment (CARE) program. CARE is a community-based program that works with county and local governments, tribes, non-profit organizations and universities to help the public understand and reduce toxic risks from numerous sources.  Since 2005, CARE has reached 81 communities in several states and territories. A recent evaluation by the National Association of Public Administration recognized the CARE program as a solid, tested framework for engaging communities and other stakeholders.

EPA will award CARE cooperative agreements in two levels. Level I awards range from $75,000 to $100,000 each and will help establish community-based partnerships to develop local environmental priorities.  Level II awards range from $150,000 to $300,000 each and will support communities that have established broad-based partnerships, have identified the priority toxic risks in the community, and are prepared to measure results, implement risk-reduction activities and become self-sustaining.  

Please note that due to appropriation law concerns, until Congress provides separate authorization, EPA can only award CARE Level II cooperative agreements to applicants that have already received CARE Level I cooperative agreements.

Applications for the CARE assistance agreements are due by March 22, 2011, 4 p.m. EST.  EPA will conduct a Webcast to answer questions from prospective applicants about the application process on March 2 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

For more information about the CARE assistance agreements visit: http://www.epa.gov/care/