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Love Your Block is a program led by the City of Gary that provides mini-grants to support resident-led solutions for cleaner, safer, and more vibrant communities. The City of Gary has received $100,000 to fund the program from the Bloomberg Center for Public Innovation at Johns Hopkins.
Love Your Block Mini-Grant Applications are NOW OPEN! Do you have a vision for improving your neighborhood? Want to beautify vacant lots, create community spaces, or tackle blight? Got a team ready to make an impact? This is YOUR chance to make a difference! Apply for a mini-grant today and bring your project to life!
Submission Deadline: April 7, 2025
Apply Now: https://forms.office.com/r/jydVz78UXK
The City of Gary’s Love Your Block program will be piloted with residents in the Glen Park, Midtown and Black Oak neighborhoods, with the possibility of expanding to other areas in the future.
Glen Park: Anchored by the Broadway corridor, this area is home to numerous small businesses and has the potential to become a thriving hub of commerce and community life. The city aims to enhance its appeal and strengthen its role as an economic driver Gary.
Midtown: This neighborhood has faced significant population loss and struggles with widespread blight. As one of the most affected areas, Midtown will receive targeted efforts to address its challenges and reimagine its future as a livable and connected community.
Black Oak: Historically marginalized due to systemic neglect and low population density, Black Oak holds rich potential. The city will prioritize equity and inclusion, working to restore its reputation as a viable and flourishing part of Gary.
Projects in other cities have historically included greening vacant lots, organizing neighborhood cleanups, and creating opportunities for beautification, cultural celebrations, and public engagement.
In spring 2025, the City of Gary held six Listening Table sessions for residents. During these sessions, residents had the opportunity to share their ideas on how to clean up and improve our neighborhoods. City officials also explained how residents could apply for mini-grants ranging from $500 to $2,000 to fund neighborhood projects. Watch the invitation video here: About Love Your Block
To volunteer or for more information, email lyb@gary.gov or call 219-881-1300
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