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Program Information
In 2025, Monroe County Executive Adam Bello announced a unique grant program for public school districts within Monroe County and BOCES # 1 and # 2.
New York State estimates that of the 3.9 million tons of organic waste generated each year, approximately 20%—780,000 tons—is generated by schools and restaurants, consisting primarily of food items.
The 2025-2026 pilot program provided up to 50 % matching funds for local schools wishing to implement new initiatives – or build on current efforts – to divert food waste from landfills. Up to $ 5,000 has been awarded to each school district.
This pilot program improves environmental outcomes in Monroe County while engaging our youngest residents as the next generation of stewards responsible for protecting the County’s future.
2025-2026 Awardee Press Release
Application Information
On February 10, 2026 the proposed 2026-2027 School Food Waste Diversion Pilot Program was introduced to the Monroe County Legislature. The pilot program for the 2026-2027 school year would again provide school districts within Monroe County and BOCES # 1 and # 2 the opportunity to apply for matching funds for up to $5,000 for the implementation of new initiatives to divert food waste as well as for the maintenance and/or expansion of existing food waste diversion programs. The maximum aggregate value of the funding program is $50,000. Fifty thousand dollars is included in the 2026 County budget for these grants.
The 2026-2027 pilot program is pending Legislative approval on March 10, 2026. Should the program be approved, the application process for the 2026-2027 school year will open on March 11, 2026.
The application process for the 2025-2026 school year has closed. To be notified of upcoming trainings and other announcements, click below.
2025-2026 Application Webinar
Frequently Asked Questions
Can individual schools apply for the grant?
No, the application must be submitted by a representative of the school district, as the school district will be the legal entity to which the funds will be awarded. The district may choose to allocate the funds to one or more schools based on their discretion and plan.
Can school districts that were awarded a grant in 2025 apply again?
Yes, school districts that were awarded a grant in 2025 are eligible and encouraged to apply again.
What is the duration of the pilot program?
The pilot is designed to last one year, aligned with the school calendar.
How much funding can the school district receive through the grant?
The district can receive up to $5,000 through the pilot program.
When will school districts be notified of the award?
Notifications will be sent in the second quarter of 2026.
When will the funds be distributed?
The grant operates as a reimbursement system. The district must first expend the money, then prepare a progress report detailing the funds spent, and submit a request for reimbursement. Once the request gets approved, funds will be reimbursed to the district.
Is there a preferred food scrap recycling technology for waste diversion (e.g., donation, anaerobic digestion, vermicomposting, composting, animal feed, etc.)?
No, the County does not have a preference. The primary goal is to minimize food waste.
What type of existing recycling program does a school need to have in order to be eligible?
Monroe County Solid Waste Reuse and Recycling Regulations require school-wide recycling of cardboard and office paper as well as pre-consumer mixed recycling (food and beverage containers made of glass, aluminum, metal or plastic, clean of contents) in food preparation areas.
Additional Information & Resources
- Cornell Cooperative Extension Monroe County
- New York State Pollution Prevention Institute (NYSP2I)
- Foodlink
- Feeding New York State
- CET – Resilient Climate Solutions
- EPA Educating Youth About Wasted Food
- DEC Organics Management
- Monroe County Solid Waste Reuse and Recycling Regulations
For additional questions, please email [email protected].
