Congressman Carter Praises Nearly $20 Million to Tackle Environmental and Climate Justice Challenges in Louisiana
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) announced new funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for Dillard University and the United Way of Southeast Louisiana through the Community Change Grants Program. They will receive $19.94 million to reduce air pollution and strengthen community resilience to natural disasters. This award was made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which Congressman Carter proudly helped craft and voted for.
“The Inflation Reduction Act, the largest ever investment in climate action and environmental justice, is a testament to our commitment to building a more resilient and sustainable future,” said Rep. Carter. “Through this federal award, the project will provide up to 300 families with e-bikes, expand bike-sharing programs, install EV chargers, and retrofit public buildings with energy-efficient systems. Dillard University will also spearhead new educational programs in clean energy and climate resilience. These innovative and community-focused solutions will ensure a healthier, more sustainable future for all.”
The Community Change Grants Program was funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, which is the single largest investment in climate action in American history. The grant award will empower Dillard University and the United Way of Southeast Louisiana to address critical environmental challenges and enhance community resilience in Orleans, St. Tammany, and Washington Parishes. Key initiatives include reducing pollution and improving transportation access by providing up to 300 families with e-bikes, expanding bike-sharing programs, and installing EV chargers. Additionally, the funding will support retrofitting public buildings with energy-efficient HVAC systems, solar panels, and energy storage, enabling them to lower their greenhouse gas emissions and serve as community resilience hubs during emergencies.
Furthermore, Dillard University will launch new non-degree certificate programs in clean energy and climate resilience, equipping the community with essential skills for a sustainable future.
“United Way of Southeast Louisiana is thrilled to partner with Dillard University as we embrace this historic opportunity provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Community Change Grants Program,” said Michael Williamson, United Way of Southeast Louisiana’s president and CEO. “Last week’s announcement of over $325 million in funding to support disadvantaged communities in addressing environmental and climate justice challenges marks a significant step forward. This initiative will empower our communities by reducing pollution, increasing climate resilience, and building capacity. We are excited to contribute to these transformative efforts and make a lasting impact together.”
"The EPA's selection of Dillard University's Community Change Grant submission, in partnership with the United Way of Southeast Louisiana, is a testament to the value we place on collaboration with our array of stakeholders to transform our community,” said Dr. Monique Guillory, Dillard University Interim President. “As a native New Orleanian, I am distinctly familiar with the environmental injustices that have plagued this region. It is that understanding that makes this award a special honor as I am called to serve the Bleu Devil family as Interim President. This is not just an award for Dillard University, but for our entire New Orleans community. I extend a special note of appreciation to Dillard alum, Mr. Rod Hall with Nelson and Mullins, the Louisiana congressional delegation, and in particular, Dr. Rochelle Ford, and Dr. Charles Prince for their leadership of this effort. We look forward to leveraging this award for substantive impact to the Dillard University community and beyond."
“Our ability to deliver tangible results for communities depends on listening to them and developing innovative solutions through inclusive stakeholder engagement,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Today, thanks to President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, EPA has selected the first cohort of community partnerships to solve emerging and longstanding environmental and climate justice challenges.”
To learn more about the Community Change Grants and Technical Assistance visit EPA’s Inflation Reduction Act Community Change Grants Program webpage.
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