Kids Recreation Grant

Kids Recreation Grant is sponsored by Union County Open Space, Recreation and Historic Preservation Trust Fund. Supports the development and improvement of local recreational facilities and programs that directly benefit children in Union County.

Union County Awards Over $1. 14 Million in Open Space, Recreation, and Historic Preservation Grants to Local Communities – County of Union, New Jersey The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce the 2025 grant awards under the Union County Open Space, Recreation, and Historic Preservation Trust Fund. This year, more than $1.

14 million has been allocated to municipalities and local organizations through three countywide programs: the Kids Recreation Trust Fund, Greening Union County, and Preserve Union County. These grants support the development of parks and recreation facilities, expand tree planting and environmental sustainability efforts, and help restore and protect the historic sites that shape Union County’s cultural heritage.

“Each year, these grant programs strengthen the public spaces that bring our communities together,” said Commissioner Chair Lourdes M. Leon . “From playground improvements and trail enhancements, to tree planting and historic preservation, these investments reflect our commitment to supporting families, improving quality of life, and maintaining the character and history that make Union County unique.

We are proud to partner with our municipalities and organizations as they continue to build vibrant, welcoming, and sustainable neighborhoods for all residents. ” This year’s funding supports local projects in every corner of Union County, including: Kids Recreation Trust Fund: $784,800.

00 awarded to municipalities to improve playgrounds, athletic fields, courts, walking paths, and other recreational facilities for children and families. Greening Union County: $100,000 awarded for the planting of trees in public spaces to support environmental health and beautification efforts. Preserve Union County: $298,902.

00 awarded to historical societies, museums, and landmark stewards for restoration, preservation, and educational enhancements. “As Chairman of the Open Space, Recreation, and Historic Preservation Trust Fund Committee, it is an honor to see the continued impact these grants have across our County,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados .

“These investments create opportunity — for children to play in safe and modern facilities, for families to enjoy cleaner and greener parks, and for our seniors to stay active and connected in the communities they helped build. They also ensure the stories and history that define Union County are preserved for future generations. Together, we are building communities that are healthier, more resilient, and more vibrant.

” In his remarks on October 23rd’s Union County Board of County Commissioner’s meeting, Commissioner Granados also recognized the work of his fellow committee members Commissioners Bette Jane Kowalski, Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded, and Rebecca Williams, as well as the Office of Open Space, Recreation, and Historic Preservation Trust Fund, led by Director Victoria Durbin-Drake, Angelica Cedeño and Victoria Rendon, for their leadership and oversight in bringing this year’s funding forward.

2025 Grant Awards Include: Kids Recreation Trust Fund Berkeley Heights – $35,000 Berkeley Heights – $3,400 Berkeley Heights – $20,000 Cranford Historical Society – $9,902 Fanwood-Scotch Plains Rotary Club – $40,000 Kenilworth Historical Society – $40,000 Plainfield–Jerusalem Lodge No. 26 – $40,000 Rahway – Merchant & Drovers Tavern Museum – $42,500 The Fortnightly Club of Summit – $30,000 Union Township Historical Society – $1,500 Liberty Hall Museum (Union) – $15,000 Funding for these programs is provided through the Union County Open Space, Recreation and Historic Preservation Trust Fund.

For more information, please contact Angelica Cedeno, Deputy Administrator, at acedeno@ucnj. org or call 908-558-2279.

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