FLINT, Mich. — A long-running program that engages residents to clean up and maintain vacant lots across Flint is back for its 21st season.
The Clean & Green program, led by the Genesee County Land Bank Authority, officially kicks off Friday, April 25, with an event at the Flint Public Library. Community members are invited to attend from 1 to 3 p.m., where they can meet participants and program organizers.
From April through September, more than 60 community-based groups—including neighborhood associations, schools, churches, and youth programs—will mow and maintain over 3,400 vacant properties every three weeks.
Each group will receive a stipend for maintaining at least 25 lots per cycle. Youth participating in the program will gain hands-on experience in making a positive impact in their own communities. On April 25 and 26, groups can pick up supplies, including lawn tools, T-shirts and custom yard signs, as they prepare for the season’s first round of cleanup.
“We are incredibly proud of the Clean & Green program. We could not do this work alone,” said Michael Freeman, executive director of the Genesee County Land Bank. “This program is a shining example of the dramatic difference we can all make in our community by working together.”
More than $7 million has been invested into the program since it began. This year’s event is supported by the Ruth Mott Foundation, the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation and the Michigan Youth Violence Prevention Center.
Organizers point to research from the University of Michigan’s Youth Violence Prevention Center, which shows the program’s impact goes beyond appearances. Studies found areas maintained through Clean & Green had 30% fewer assaults, 40% fewer violent crimes and lower rates of child maltreatment and youth gun violence.
While Clean & Green is available only to community organizations, the Land Bank offers additional programs for individual residents interested in greening lots, such as Adopt-A-Lot, Lease-A-Lot, and Side Lot sales.
For more information, visit thelandbank.org, email cleangreen@thelandbank.org, or call 810-257-3088, ext. 524.