SPU and WM Announce Recipients of 2024 ReThink Waste Grants

Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) and WM are teaming up for the sixth year in a row to invest $10,000 in innovative stewardship projects in Seattle. This year, funds are going to four local organizations. The purpose of the grant program is to help community-based organizations advance waste prevention, waste reduction, recycling, and composting. SPU and WM are pleased to announce the following recipients of the 2024 ReThink Waste Grants:

• Amigos de Seattle will receive $5,000 for in-person workshops and a live radio show to educate and engage the Latino and South Park communities in waste prevention.
• Diaspora Cafe will receive $3,000 to promote a culture of reuse through reusable cups and bowls as well as a compost bin for their café garden.
• Switchback Repair will receive $1,500 to expand their outdoor gear repair service and gear maintenance education.
• Sustainable Ballard will receive $500 for the Ballard Tool Library, to maintain shared tools supporting local edible gardens and RainWise yards.

“The grants are investments in local organizations to jump-start sustainability in the communities we service,” said Joe Camero, WM’s Public Sector Manager for Seattle. “This year’s recipients showcase the types of diverse waste prevention and waste reduction strategies available.”

"Seattle Public Utilities is proud to support community-driven efforts that champion waste prevention, reduction, and recycling,” said Jeff Fowler, Deputy Director of Solid Waste at SPU. “These local partnerships create a lasting and meaningful impact and together we're building a more sustainable future."

A selection committee including staff from SPU’s Residential Solid Waste Outreach and WM chose the recipients from entries submitted by Seattle businesses and non-profits in WM’s service area.