Schools Food Waste Diversion Pilot Program

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Application Information

Applications are due no later than Friday, April 11, 2025 by 11:59 p.m. EDT. Questions? Contact us at [email protected]

Monroe County Executive Adam Bello announced a unique grant program for public school districts within Monroe County and BOCES # 1 and # 2.

New York State estimates that of the 3.9 million tons of organic waste generated each year, approximately 20%—780,000 tons—is generated by schools and restaurants, consisting primarily of food items.

This pilot program will provide up to 50 % matching funds for local schools wishing to implement new initiatives – or build on current efforts – to divert food waste from landfills. Up to $ 5000 will be awarded to each school district. The maximum aggregate value of this program for 2025 is $ 50,000.

This pilot program will improve environmental outcomes in Monroe County while engaging our youngest residents as the next generation of stewards responsible for protecting the County’s future.

Upon approval of the Monroe County Legislature, the application process will be open to all Monroe County School Districts and BOCES # 1 and # 2. Applications are expected to be available on this website in March 2025. Grant announcements are anticipated to be made in the second quarter of 2025. Following the award announcements, successful school districts will need to enter into an Intermunicipal Agreement (IMA) with the County.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can individual schools apply for the grant?
No, the application must be submitted by a representative of the school district, as the school district will be the legal entity to which the funds will be awarded. The district may choose to allocate the funds to one or more schools based on their discretion and plan.

What is the duration of the pilot program? 
The pilot is designed to last one year, aligned with the school calendar. It can be conducted from June 2025 to June 2026 or from August 2025 to August 2026.

How much funding can the school district receive through the grant?
The district can receive up to $5,000 through the pilot program.

When will school districts be notified of the award?
Notifications will be sent out in early-May 2025.

When will the funds be distributed?
The grant operates as a reimbursement system. The district must first expend the money, then prepare a progress report detailing the funds spent, and submit a request for reimbursement. Once the request gets approved, funds will be reimbursed to the district.

Is there a preferred food scrap recycling technology for waste diversion (e.g., donation, anaerobic digestion, vermicomposting, composting, animal feed, etc.)?
No, the County does not have a preference. The primary goal is to minimize food waste.

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