Daley announces $20K environmental education grant for Riverbend Environmental Education Center

GLADWYNE, July 1 – State Rep. Mary Jo Daley, D-Montgomery, announced a $20,000 Environmental Education Grant for Riverbend Environmental Education Center in Gladwyne.

According to a release from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, this funding is part of a statewide initiative to engage youth and adults in environmental justice, climate change and/or water quality improvement, expanding their understanding of these issues and providing skills to take responsible action to protect their environment.

“I am thrilled that right here in the 148th Legislative District, Riverbend’s comprehensive program that includes teacher professional development, direct student classroom lessons and a STEM-based Aquaponics program benefits directly from this grant,” Daley said. “It increases the capacity for schools to build environmental literacy and engage students in high-quality, inquiry-based science lessons aligned to Pennsylvania academic standards.”

Grants were awarded to schools and colleges, environmental and community organizations, and conservation district offices that applied in 2019 and met project criteria for funding. In total, the DEP distributed $434,168 across 55 recipients.

“This impressive list of funded projects speaks to the innovation and dedication of Pennsylvania’s environmental educators and their significant reach in helping to develop environmental stewards among Pennsylvanians of all ages and backgrounds,” DEP Secretary Patrick McDonnell said.

Riverbend’s website says it teaches environmental principles to children in southeastern Pennsylvania “through a direct connection with nature, inspiring respect for our natural world, and action as aware, responsible and caring citizens.”