<B>RI Resource Recovery Corp. Accepting Grant Applications</B>

This year, a total of $150,000 is available, and all 39 cities and towns are eligible to apply. The funding is for new programs or initiatives aimed at increasing the quantity and improving the quality of recyclable materials.

Short-form applications are due by Oct. 16. Resource Recovery will review the proposals and ask some communities to submit more detailed applications. The process takes about six months.

Of six cities and towns that filed final applications last year, these five received grants: Lincoln, Newport, Warwick, Westerly and West Warwick.

Resource Recovery is the quasi-public corporation that funds and manages the state's recycling program and runs the Materials Recycling Facility in Johnston.

According to Dennis DeJesus, recycling program manager for the Rhode Island Resource Recovery Corp., funding for the grant project, in its second year, comes through the state's municipal budget.

In addition to funding available to municipal agencies, the organization has $150,000 in grant money available to private companies

DeJesus stresses that grant money is geared toward applicants looking for innovative ways in which recycling can be increased.

For additional information or to file for a grant contact Dennis DeJesu at 65 Shun Pike Dr. Johnston, RI 02919, or call (401) 942-1430, ext. 124.