The City of Bloomington’s Department of Housing and Neighborhood Development (HAND) offers the Neighborhood Cleanup Grant Program, a community-building initiative designed to facilitate large-scale neighborhood cleanups. The program provides neighborhoods with the resources to organize cleanup events, including trucks or dumpsters for waste collection and disposal. HAND collects various materials for recycling or disposal, including large trash items, recyclables, scrap metal, tires, hazardous materials, electronics (except certain large items or those containing Freon), and oversized yard waste. Usable items deemed unwanted can also be placed in a "picker pile" for reuse by community members.

Two Neighborhood Cleanup Grants are awarded annually through a competitive application process. Neighborhoods within Bloomington’s corporate boundaries that have not received this grant in the past two years are eligible to apply. To qualify, neighborhoods must demonstrate a high level of organization, volunteer commitment, and ongoing communication. Applications should highlight the neighborhood’s motivation, readiness, and commitment to managing the cleanup event, including volunteer hours and coordination efforts.

The 2025 grant application is due on March 3, 2025. The application process is electronic and requires a Google account for submission, allowing applicants to upload necessary documents, receive a copy of their application, and make edits after submission. Required documents include a Cleanup Volunteer Commitment Form and an Attestation of Neighborhood Inclusivity, signed by a neighborhood official. Applicants are encouraged to review the application guidelines thoroughly and prepare all materials before starting the electronic form.

Successful applications often feature clear evidence of volunteer pledges, a detailed plan for cleanup organization, and a demonstrated commitment to inclusivity and collaboration. HAND staff are available to assist with the application process, offering guidance and clarification as needed. Angela Van Rooy serves as the primary contact for assistance and can be reached at 812-349-3505 or angela.vanrooy@bloomington.in.gov.

Neighborhood cleanups will take place on selected Saturdays in 2025: April 12, April 19, May 3, May 17, and May 31. Applicants are asked to indicate their top two preferred dates. This annual program has supported numerous neighborhoods in the past, fostering community engagement and improving local environments through collective action.

Past grant recipients include neighborhoods such as Grandview Hills, Broadview, Fritz Terrace, Near West Side, and others. These communities have used the grant to address waste disposal needs effectively and engage residents in meaningful cleanup efforts. Neighborhood groups interested in participating are encouraged to apply early and thoroughly plan their submissions to maximize their chances of selection.