New Committee Focuses on Funding Town Projects

The Matawan Council recently created a Grant Committee to focus on obtaining grants for the town, according to Councilwoman Donna Gould.

"Getting a grant is a great thing. But it is a lot of work and it doesn't always happen," Gould said. "We're just trying to make it happen more often and get as much money possible for this wonderful town."

The purpose of the committee is for Matawan residents to come together and find ways to fund the projects the town wishes to complete.

"I thought this would be a great idea, to get a group focused and committed," Gould said. "There are 70,000 private foundations that give away 27 million dollars in grants annually."

The committee currently has six volunteers, including Chairperson Sheila Flamm. Flamm has experience writing grants from her time as the Matawan recreation director.

The committee has held two meetings already. The members have identified different projects the town needs, versus other projects the town may want. At the most recent meeting, some ideas discussed included renovating Memorial Park, repairing the side of the community center and purchasing a new fire truck.

The challenge for the committee, however, is that many grants require different levels of matching funds. In those cases, the town would have to be willing and able to provide the proper funds, otherwise they would risk being penalized.

According to Gould, this committee is likely the only one of its kind in the county.

"I am not aware of any other municipality with an all volunteer committee dedicated to finding grants for their town," Gould said.

The volunteers were found through the Matawan Volunteer Program, an initiative Gould started when she was elected councilwoman in January to encourage participation in community service. Gould enjoys seeings the people of Matawan work together to improve the town.

"Every meeting we have brings us closer to getting a grant. I'm very proud," Gould said.

If you are interested in volunteering for Matawan, either on the grant committee or in any other way, please contact Donna Gould by calling her at 732-441-1519 or through email at donnagould@sprintmail.com.