HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-087-E-County Mgr-Table Ministries-Twin Creeks Farm ExpansionClimate Action Grant Program
Revised 04/23 Page 1 of 10
COMMUNITY CLIMATE ACTION GRANT PERFORMANCE AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT, made and entered into the tenth day of March 2026, (“Effective Date”) by and
between the County of Orange, a political subdivision of the State of North Carolina, Post Office Box 8181,
Hillsborough, North Carolina, 27278, ("County") and Table Ministries, Inc., a not-for-profit corporation,
located at 311 E. Main St., Carrboro, North Carolina, 27510 (“Provider”).
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, it is in the interests of the County that said program be assisted by the County and thereby
enhance its availability to residents of the County, and said program addresses an important community
human services need, as identified by the Board of Commissioners.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the above and the mutual covenants and conditions hereafter set
forth, the County and Provider agree as follows:
1. Term of the Agreement. The term of this Agreement shall be two years beginning March 10,
2026 to March 10, 2028.
2. Scope of Services.
a. Provider will provide services, as outlined in the attached Community Climate Action Grant
Application and any amendments or revision thereto which is attached as Exhibit “A” and
incorporated by reference, to the residents of Orange County. The Scope of Services and
the Program Budget may be different from the original application based on County
appropriation; however, any revisions or amendments to this Agreement must be approved
in writing by the County and attached to this Agreement as Exhibit B.
b. The Provider shall be solely responsible for the means, methods, techniques, sequence, safety
program and procedures necessary to properly and fully complete the work set forth in the
Scope of Services.
3. Funding.
a. The County agrees to appropriate for the provision of services described in Exhibit A, the
Community Climate Action Grant Program Application, Exhibit b, the Revised Scope of
Services and more particularly described in the Revised Program Budget, the maximum sum
of $ 30,000.
b. All funds appropriated shall be used for purposes described in Exhibit A. Any funds not
used for the purposes stated shall be returned to the County. Any changes in the use of funds
must be authorized in writing by the County prior to any expenditure of the funds by the
Provider. If the funds are expended not in accordance with the Scope of Services, at the
discretion of the County the Provider may be required to repay the funds to the County.
c. The Provider shall be paid in installments in the amount of see Exhibit C. The first payment
is contingent upon receipt of the agency’s performance agreement; the remaining payments
are contingent upon receipt of the request for reimbursement and related supporting
documentation. If the project described in Exhibit A requires funds to be provided on a
different or more accelerated schedule, the Provider may request an alternative payment
schedule, which, if approved, will be attached to this agreement as Exhibit C, Alternative
Payment Schedule. Should an alternative payment schedule be approved, the Provider will
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still be required to submit quarterly Progress Reports for the duration of the Term of the
Agreement.
d. The County’s obligation to make the quarterly payments is contingent upon receipt of
Progress Reports, which show satisfactory progress toward completion of performance
measures and an accounting of expenditures as detailed in the attached Exhibits B and C.
e. Once Provider has satisfied its obligations as provided in (d) payment will be made 21 days
after receipt of the Progress Report and Request for Reimbursement or 21 days after due date
of Progress Report whichever is later.
f. The County is not obligated to provide any other support to Provider in this or in succeeding
fiscal years.
4. Agency Reporting.
a. Provider will provide Orange County a Progress Report that includes a fiscal report and
updates on performance measures as outlined in the Scope of Services. Progress Report dates
are: January 1-March 31, April 1- June 30, July 1- September 30, October 1-December
31. Reports are due on April 15, July 15, October 15 and January 15 of the program
fiscal year.
b. Provider agrees to allow the County to inspect its financial books and records, which
document costs of those services, upon reasonable notice during normal working hours.
5. Termination.
a. Termination for Cause. In the event of any of the circumstances set forth below (hereinafter
referred to as “default”), the County may immediately terminate this Agreement, in whole or
in part, and from time to time. Notice of termination must be in writing, state the reason or
reasons for the termination, and specify the effective date of the termination:
i. In the event that Provider shall cease to exist as an organization or shall enter
bankruptcy proceedings, be declared insolvent, or liquidate all or substantially all of
its assets, or significantly reduce its services or accessibility to Orange County
residents during the term of this Agreement; or
ii. In the event that Provider shall fail to render a satisfactory accounting as provided
section 4 above, the County may terminate this Agreement and Provider shall return
all payments already made to it by the County for services which have not been
provided or for which no satisfactory accounting has been rendered; or
iii. In the event of any fraudulent representation by the Provider in an invoice or other
verification required to obtain payment under this Agreement or other dishonesty on
a material matter relating to the performance of services under this Agreement.
iv. Nonperformance, incomplete service or performance, or failure to satisfactorily
perform any part of the work identified in the Scope of Services or to comply with
any provision of this Agreement, as determined by the County in its sole discretion.
v. Failure to adhere to the terms of applicable county, state or federal laws, regulations,
or stated public policy.
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b. In the event of default by the Provider, the county may elect to terminate this Agreement, in
whole or in part and/or require the Provider to repay the funds within ten (10) business days
from written notice of default. The County may (but shall not be required to) grant the
Provider an opportunity to cure the default without termination of this Agreement. This
clause shall not be interpreted to limit the County’s remedies in law or in equity.
c. Notwithstanding the foregoing, either party may terminate the agreement at any time without
penalty; provided that written notice of such termination is furnished to the other party at
least 30 days prior to termination. In the event of such termination, any payment due shall
be prorated to the date of termination and any unused funds shall be returned to the County
within 10 days of termination.
d. Any termination of this Agreement for default under this section that is later deemed to be
unjustified shall be deemed a termination for convenience.
e. Waiver. The payment of any sums by the County under this Agreement or the failure of the
County to require compliance by the Provider with any provisions of this Agreement or the
waiver by the County of any breach of this Agreement shall not constitute a waiver of any
claim for damages by the County for any breach of this Agreement or a waiver of any other
required compliance with this Agreement.
6. Responsibilities of the County.
Cooperation and Coordination. The County has designated (Amy Eckberg) to act as the
County's representative with respect to the Project who shall have the authority to render
decisions within guidelines established by the County Manager or the County Board of
Commissioners and who shall be available during working hours as often as may be
reasonably required to render decisions and to furnish information.
7. Insurance.
a. General Requirements. The Provider shall purchase and maintain, during the period of
performance of this Agreement, insurance:
i. Worker’s Compensation. For protection from claims under workers' or workmen's
compensation acts;
ii. Comprehensive General Liability Insurance covering claims arising out of or relating
to bodily injury, including bodily injury, sickness, disease or death of any of the
Consultant's employees or any other person and to real and personal property
including loss of use resulting thereof;
iii. Comprehensive Automobile Liability Insurance, including hired and non-owned
vehicles, if any, covering personal injury or death, and property damage; and
iv. Professional Liability Insurance, covering personal injury, bodily injury and property
damage and claims arising out of or related to the performance under this Agreement
by the Consultant or his agents, consultants and employees.
v. Sexual Misconduct. Sexual Abuse/Molestation Insurance is required when Provider
works directly one-on-one with children, elderly or other at-risk populations.
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b. Limits of Coverage: Minimum limits of insurance coverage shall be as follows:
INSURANCE DESCRIPTION MINIMUM REQUIRED COVERAGE
• Worker's Compensation Limits for Coverage A - Statutory State
NC & Coverage B - Employers Liability
$500,000 each accident, disease policy limit and
disease each employee
• Commercial General $1,000,000 Each Occurrence
Liability $2,000,000 Aggregate
• Automobile Liability $500,000 Combined Single Limit
• Professional Liability $1,000,000 Each Occurrence
$2,000,000 Aggregate
• Sexual Misconduct $1,000,000 Each Occurrence
$2,000,000 Aggregate
c. All insurance policies (with the exception of Worker's Compensation and Professional
Liability) required under this Agreement shall name the County as an additional insured party
and as a certificate holder. For more information see the Orange County Risk Transfer
Policy and Orange County Minimum Insurance Coverage Requirements, (each
document is incorporated herein by reference and may be viewed at
http://www.orangecountync.gov/departments/purchasing_division/contracts.php.)
Evidence of such insurance and all correspondence shall be sent to:
Orange County Risk Manager
Post Office Box 8181
Hillsborough, NC 27278
d. Nothing in this section is intended to affect or abrogate the County’s sovereign immunity
defenses.
8. General Provisions.
a. Governing Law. This Agreement and the duties, responsibilities, obligations and rights of
respective parties hereunder shall be governed by the laws of the State of North Carolina. By
executing this Agreement Provider affirms that Provider and any subcontractors of Provider
are and shall remain in compliance with Article 2 of Chapter 64 of the North Carolina General
Statutes. By executing this Agreement Provider certifies that Provider has not been
identified, and has not utilized the services of any agent or subcontractor identified, on the
list created by the State Treasurer pursuant to G.S. 147-86.58. By executing this Agreement
Provider certifies that Provider has not been identified, and has not utilized the services of
any agent or subcontractor identified, on the list created by the State Treasurer pursuant to
G.S. 147-86.81.
b. Non-Discrimination. Provider agrees as part of consideration of the granting of funds by
Orange County the parties hereto for themselves, their agents, officials, employees and
servants agree not to discriminate in any manner of these basis of race, color, gender, national
origin, age, handicap, religion, sexual orientation, familial status or veterans status with
reference to any activities carried out by the grantee, no matter how remote. The parties
hereto further agree in all respects to conform to the provision and intent of Orange County
Civil Rights Ordinance, as amended and the Orange County Non-discrimination Policy,
which is incorporated herein by reference and can be viewed at
http://www.orangecountync.gov/departments/purchasing_division/contracts.php. The
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County may enforce this provision by an action for specific performance, injunctive relief,
or other remedy as by law provided; this provision shall be binding on the grantees, the
successors and assigns of the parties hereto with reference to the above subject manner.
c. Dispute Resolution. Any and all suits or actions to enforce, interpret or seek damages with
respect to any provision of, or the performance or non-performance of, this Agreement shall
be brought in the General Court of Justice of North Carolina sitting in Orange County, North
Carolina. It is agreed by the parties that no other court shall have jurisdiction or venue with
respect to such suits or actions. Binding arbitration may not be initiated by either Party,
however, the Parties may agree to nonbinding mediation of any dispute prior to the bringing
of such suit or action.
d. Living Wage. Orange County is committed to providing its employees with a living wage
and encourages agencies if funds to pursue the same goal. The Orange County Living Wage
Policy, which is incorporated herein by reference, can be viewed at:
http://www.orangecountync.gov/departments/purchasing_division/contracts.php. The
County’s living wage is $22.60 per hour. To the extent possible, Orange County
recommends that Provider provide a living wage to its employees.
e. Relationship of the Parties. Provider is an independent contractor of the County. Provider
represents that they have or will secure, at his own expense, all personnel required in
performing the services under this Agreement. Such personnel shall not be employees or
have any contractual relationship with the County. All personnel engaged in work under this
Agreement shall be fully qualified and shall be authorized and permitted under federal, state
and local law to perform such services.
f. Compliance with all Laws. The Provider, at its sole expense, shall comply with all laws,
ordinances, orders and regulations of the federal, state or local governments, as well as their
respective departments, commissions, boards, and officers, which are in effect at the time of
execution of this Agreement or are adopted at any time following execution of this
agreement.
g. Subcontract. The County and Provider deem the services provided under this Agreement
to be personal in nature and Provider may not subcontract any rights or duties under this
Agreement to any other party without prior written consent from the County.
h. Assignment. The Provider shall not assign this Agreement, including the rights to payment,
to any other party without the prior written consent of the County.
i. Indemnification. Provider agrees to defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the County, for
all loss, liability, claims or expense (including reasonable attorney's fees) arising from bodily
injury, including death or property damage, to any person or persons caused in whole or in
part by the negligence or willful misconduct of the Provider, except to the extent same are
caused by the negligence or willful misconduct of the County. It is the intent of this section
to require Provider to indemnify the County to the extent permitted under North Carolina
law. Nothing in this section is intended to affect or abrogate the County’s sovereign
immunity defenses.
j. Non-Appropriation. This Agreement is subject to the availability of funds to purchase the
specified services and may be terminated at any time if such funds become unavailable.
k. Severability. All clauses found herein shall act independently of each other. If a clause is
found to be illegal or unenforceable, it shall have no effect on the other provisions of this
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Agreement. It is understood by the parties hereto that if any part, term or provision of this
Agreement is by the Courts held to be illegal or in conflict with any laws of the State of North
Carolina or the United States, the validity of the remaining portions or provisions shall not
be affected, and the rights and obligations of the parties shall be construed and enforced as if
the Agreement did not contain the particular part, term or provision held to be invalid.
l. Entire Agreement. This Agreement represents the entire and integrated agreement between
the County and the Provider and supersedes all prior negotiations, representations or
agreements, either written or oral. This Agreement may be amended only by written
instrument signed by both parties. Modifications may be evidenced by facsimile signatures.
m. Notices. Any notice required by this Agreement shall be in writing and delivered by certified
or registered mail, return receipt requested to the following:
Orange County Provider’s Name Table Ministries, Inc.
Attention: Amy Eckberg Attention: Laure Dille
P.O. Box 8181 Address: 311 E. Main St
Hillsborough, NC 27278 Carrboro, NC 27510
Email:aeckberg@orangecountync.gov Email: ldille@tablenc.org
n. Signatures. This Agreement together with any amendments or modifications may be
executed electronically. All electronic signatures affixed hereto evidence the intent of the
Parties to comply with Article 11A and Article 40 of North Carolina General Statute Chapter
66.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Orange County and the Provider have signed this Agreement, effective on
the last date this Agreement is signed by both parties as indicated by the dates set forth under signatures
below.
For and on behalf of the Provider
_____________________________ _______________________
, Date
For and on behalf of Orange County Government
_______________________________ ________________________
Travis Myren, County Manager Date
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ORANGE COUNTY—INTERNAL USE ONLY
______________________________________________________________________________
Finance Information
Vendor Name: Table Ministries Inc Vendor Contact Person: Laura Dille Phone: 19196364860 Address: 311 E.
Main St City Carrboro State: NC Zip: 27510 Department: County Manager Amount: $ 30,000 Purpose: Twin
Creeks Farm Expansion Budget Code(s): 61210335-803102-30052 Vendor # 800791
Vendor Status with NCSOS: Vendor is a BOCC consultant: Yes No
Contract Details
Contract Type: New Amendment (Original Contract: ) (Most Recent Amendment )
Effective Date March 10, 2026 End Date March 10, 2028 Notice Date (Notice Purpose )
Award
Approved by Board (Agenda Date: January 20, 2026); Made or Administered by
Signature Authority
- BOCC Express Delegation (Agenda Date: )
- Policy 9.4: Under $5,000; Service Under $90,000; Construction Under $250,000
- Budget Policy Section XV (Capital Improvement Project: )
Bidding
Informal Bidding ($30k-$90k); Formal RFP ($90k+); Other (<$30k); Exception(# )
Department Affirmation
This agreement is approved as to technical form and content and I as Department Director affirmatively state work
on this project has not been initiated prior to execution of the agreement.
Services related to this agreement have already begun or been completed. Description of the nature of the
emergency condition that was addressed:
Department Director’s Signature ________________________________________ Date: ________
Information Technologies
This agreement has been reviewed and is approved as to information technology content and specifications:
Office of the Chief Information Officer___________________________________ Date: ________
Inapplicable because no hardware/software purchases or related services
Risk Management
This agreement is approved for sufficiency of insurance standards, specifications, and requirements:
Office of the Risk Management Officer___________________________________ Date: _________
Financial Services
This instrument has been pre-audited in the manner required by the Local Government Budget and Fiscal Control Act:
Office of the Chief Financial Officer ____________________________________ Date: _________
Legal Services
This agreement is approved as to legal form and sufficiency:
Office of the County Attorney __________________________________________Date: ________
Clerk to the Board
All Docusign contracts must be copied to the Clerk upon completion: occlerkdocs@orangecountync.gov
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The following signature block is for hard copies only and is not required for Docusign contracts:
Received for record retention:
Office of the Clerk to the Board __________________________________________Date:_________
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Exhibit A
Community Climate Action Grant Application
Board of Orange County Commissioners Agenda 1-20-26
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Exhibit B
Provider’s Revised Scope of Services and Program Budget
N/A
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Exhibit C
Payment Schedule
1st Quarter $7500
2nd Quarter $7500
3rd Quarter $7500
4th Quarter $7500
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ATTACHMENT “A”
Orange County Certifications – FY 2025-2026
Chief Contact, Administrators, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer
I certify that I have provided a list of the chief contact, administrators, chief executive officer and chief
financial officer for my agency with this Agreement and that I will keep it current to the County of Orange.
The list should be in writing with the name, title, residential address; phone and email address and if possible,
fax number.
Officers and Board of Directors
I certify that I have provided a current list of the Officers and Board of Directors with this Agreement and
that we will continue to update the list as changes occur. The list should be in writing, with the name, physical
address, mailing address and if possible, phone, fax and email address.
Budget Submission
I certify that I have provided a budget for the period to be covered by funding Orange County, and that any
substantive changes made to this budget have been in advance authorized in writing by Orange County.
Annual Financial Review
I certify that I have provided a copy of the latest annual Financial Review for our agency and the budget
adopted by the agency for the fiscal years encompassing this Agreement. If not, please explain on a separate
sheet of paper.
Alignment with Organization’s Mission
I certify that the programs and services for which this funding is requested align with the mission of the
organization.
Intended Purpose
I certify that the funds provided to the agency under the terms of this Agreement will be used for a public
purpose and shall only be used for the purposes intended and any money not used for those purposes will be
promptly returned to Orange County.
Certified by: _______________________ Title: __________________________ Date: ___________
(Provider’s Signature)
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Director of Operations 3/11/2026
Orange County Sustainability Powered by Submittable
Title Twi n Creeks Farm Expansi on
by Laura Dille in 2026 Orange County Community
Climate Action Grant Application
ldille@tablenc.org
08/15/2025
id. 51368339
Post Award - New Vendor
Score n/a
Original Submission 08/21/2025
Score n/a
Table of Contents: Section A. Applicant Organization’s Contact Information
Section B. Collaborators and Partners Section C. Project Information
Section D. Scored Criteria You can invite additional people to complete
this form as a collaborator. Follow this link for additional information * The
owner of this application (the person who started it and added the
collaborators) is the only person who is able to submit. Once submitted,
ownership is able to be transferred to another person. Click on Invite
Collaborators. A Dialog box will appear, asking you to enter the email
addresses of your collaborators. Enter those addresses, then click Invite.
Invited collaborators will receive an email, letting them know you've invited
them to collaborate on a draft submission using Submittable. In order to
communicate with collaborators through the Submittable platform, all
invitees must accept the invite BEFORE the owner of the submission
(that's you!) hits Submit. After you've sent invitations to collaborate, you
can click on the Invite Collaborators link again anytime to see the status of
your invitations. In the row for each invitee who has not yet accepted their
invitation, you will see a Pending indication. There will also be a trash can
next to each person’s name so that the Submission Owner can remove
anyone that they no longer want to collaborate on the submission.
Section A. Applicant Organization’s Information
A1. Organization’s
Legal Name
Table Ministries, Inc.
A2. Physical Address 311 E. Main St.
Carrboro
NC
27510
US
35.9111624
-79.067667
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A3. Is your mailing
address different
than your physical
address?
No
A4. W eb Address (if
applicable)
www.tablenc.org
A5. Preferred Phone
Number
+19196364860
A6. E-Mail ldille@tablenc.org
A7. Tax ID Number 26-1471735
A8. W here did you
hear about this grant
opportunity?
Other
A8a. Please describe
how you heard about
this grant
opportunity.
W ord of mouth
A9. Have you applied
to this grant
opportunity before?
No
Disclosure of
Potential Conflicts of
Interest and Non-
Discrimination
Clause
Are any of the Board Members or employees of the organization which will
be carrying out this project or their named project collaborators/partners or
members of their immediate families, or their business associates:
A10. Select any of
the following that
apply:
e. Not applicable / NA
A11. NON-
DISCRIMINATION
Provider agrees as part of consideration of the granting of funds by funding
agencies to the parties hereto for themselves, their agents, officials,
employees and servants agree not to discriminate in any manner on the
basis of race, color, gender, national origin, age, handicap, religion, sexual
orientation, gender identity/expression, familial status or veterans status
with reference to any activities carried out by the grantee, no matter how
remote. The parties hereto further agree in all respects to conform to the
provision and intent of Orange County Civil Rights Ordinance, as amended
and the Orange County Anti-discrimination Policy. This provision is
enforced by action for specific performance, injunctive rel ef, or other
remedy as by law provided; this provision shall be binding on the grantees,
the successors and assigns of the parties hereto with reference to the
above subject manner.
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To the best of my
knowledge and belief
all of the above
information is true
and current. I
acknowledge and
understand that the
existence of a
potential conflict of
interest does not
necessarily make the
program ineligible for
funding, but the
existence of an
undisclosed conflict
may result in the
termination of any
grant awarded.
checked
A12. Primary Contact
Name
Laura
Dille
A13. Primary Contact
Title
Director of Operations
A14. Primary Contact
Preferred Phone
Number
+19196364860
A15. Primary Contact
Email Address
ldille@tablenc.org
A16. Chief Executive
Officer / Executive
Director
Ashton
Tippins
A17. Chief Executive
Officer / Executive
Director Title
Executive Director
A18. Chief Executive
Officer / Executive
Director Preferred
Phone Number
+19196364860
A19. Chief Executive
Officer / Executive
Director Email
Address
actippins@tablenc.org
A20. Date of
Incorporation
(Month/Year):
07/2008
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A21. Applicant
Organization’s
Purpose/Mission:
(100 word limit)
TABLE delivers healthy food and nutrition education to children in Orange
County, North Carolina. W e envision a community where all children have
equitable access to nutritious food and knowledge in order to experience
optimal health, well-being, and dignity.
A22. Living W age:
Does this
organization pay
employees a
minimum living wage*
(A living wage is
$17.65/hr or
$16.15/hr with
employer provided
health insurance.)?
Yes
A23. Is this
organization an
Orange County
Living W age
Certified Employer*?
Yes
Schedule of Positions:
A24. Number of Full-
Time Paid Positions:
8
A25. Number of Part-
Time Paid Positions:
3
A26. Number of
Volunteers:
200
Section B. Collaborators and Partners In some projects, collaborators and
partners provide essential capacity and connections. If collaborators or
partners are an essential part of your project, whether or not they are
receiving grant funds, please use this section to provide more details. If
you are not working with collaborators or partners, please feel free to write
N/A in this section and move to the Project Information section.
B1. Are you working
with any
collaborators or
partners on this
project?
Yes
B1a. Collaborator
Organization’s Legal
Name
W ildflower Lane Farm
B1b. Date of
Incorporation
(Month/Year)
01/2013
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B1c. Collaborator
organization’s
Purpose/Mission
(100 word limit)
The purpose of the farm is to grow organic vegetables and supply them to
TABLE for distribution to children in Orange County, NC.
B1d. Living W age:
Does this
organization pay
employees a
minimum living wage*
(A living wage is
$17.65/hr or
$16.15/hr with
employer provided
health insurance)?
N/A (not applicable)
B1e. Is this
organization an
Orange County
Living W age
Certified Employer*?
No
If no, please explain
why the organization
is not an Orange
County Living W age
Certified Employer?
(100 word limit)
Jim Sander is the main farmer at W ildflower Lane Farm and hires part-time
help but primarily relies on TABLE volunteers for labor.
Schedule of Positions:
B1f. Number of Full-
Time Paid Positions:
1
B1g. Number of Part-
Time Paid Positions:
1
B1h. Number of
Volunteers:
40
B2. Do you have
another collaborator
or partner to add?
No
Section C. Project Information
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C1a. Project Name
(This will be used as
the name of your
submission; please
keep your project
name to less than 5
words. Examples:
Tree Planting, LED
Lights, Rain Garden,
Rooftop Solar)
Twin Creeks Farm Expansion
C1b. Please
describe the
proposed project.
(300 word limit)
One in three children in our county participates in the free/reduced school
meal program - 7,000 local kids in need of food. TABLE’s mission is to
deliver healthy food and nutrition education to children across Orange
County, North Carolina. W e began delivering weekly food to 12
elementary-school children in 2008 and have grown our TABLE@Home
program to now feeding 1,125 children, ages 0-20, across Orange County
every week - with a waitlist. W e hope to feed 1,250 kids in 2025-26. Each
child receives fresh (often local/organic) and healthy nonperishable food
every week.
Our goal is to take advantage of unused land at Twin Creeks, an
undeveloped Orange County Park, to expand a partnership with W ildflower
Lane Farm (W LF) to provide local organic produce to children served by
TABLE. By utilizing volunteers, W LF and Twin Creeks can supply TABLE
with organic produce for approximately 20% of the retail price normally
found in local grocery stores. Reducing the cost of high-quality, fresh food
allows TABLE to: 1) provide nutritious food to kids that need it, 2) serve
more children, and 3) direct more dollars to local farms.
This project will benefit the environment by greatly reducing food miles,
reducing food waste, using no-spray organic farming practices, growing
oxygen-rich and pollinator plants, and reducing soil runoff. Beyond feeding
kids, we will truly improve the local climate and air quality through this
project!
C1c. Please
describe your
project’s benefits,
including those that
are quantifiable. (150
word limit)
A successful project at Twin Creeks will:
1. Increase the amount of produce that TABLE supplies to our kids.
Currently, about 35% of our produce is sourced from local farmers. This
provides the best quality produce for kids, increases access to fruits and
vegetables for food-insecure children, promotes a plant-based diet,
provides fresh produce to more children, and improves children’s health.
Our goal would be to source about 40% of our produce locally.
2. Support a sustainable local food system by providing a source of fair,
stable revenue to farmers and safer working conditions (free of chemical
pesticides). A farm partner shared, “If every farmer had a partner like
TABLE, there would be more farmers.”
3. Decrease the number of “food miles” from thousands of miles to just 5
miles from farm to TABLE, reduce the carbon footprint, and reduce our
environmental impact by utilizing safe and healthy growing practices.
Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
C1d. Please choose
the best description
for the type of
project*:
Other (Please describe)
Please describe
what type of project
this is. (100 word
limit)
This project is a combination of nature-based, waste reduction, and
reduction in food miles (gasoline usage).
C1e. W hat is the
main way that this
project helps fight
climate change?
(select one):
W aste Reduction
C1f. Please select
the jurisdiction(s)
where your project is
focused and briefly
state how your
project aligns with
the relevant Climate
Action Plans:
Orange County/Orange County Climate Action Plan
Town of Chapel Hill/Town of Chapel Hill Climate Action and Response Plan
Please name the
action items from the
Chapel Hill Climate
Action Plan that best
align with your
proposed project.
(200 word limit)
Our project aligns with the local climate action plans, particularly Orange
County and Chapel Hill. Some of the specific focuses we are aligned on
include:
* Decrease vehicle miles traveled since we are increasing the percentage
of fresh produce we source locally
* Improve air quality through reduction of gas usage and vehicle miles
traveled, as well as increasing the amount of plants being grown and
therefore producing oxygen
* Promote a green economy through employment of farm workers with safe,
environmentally-sound working conditions (i.e. no chemical pesticides)
* Reducing water runoff by having farming and plants instead of an empty
field
* Reducing waste through compost, utilizing “seconds” or “misfits” (i.e. an
oddly-shaped zucchini might not sell at a store), and getting food farm-to-
TABLE faster and fresher than food shipped across the country
Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
Please name the
action items from the
Orange County
Climate Action Plan
that best align with
your proposed
project. (200 word
limit)
Our project aligns with the local climate action plans, particularly Orange
County and Chapel Hill. Some of the specific focuses we are aligned on
include:
* Decrease vehicle miles traveled since we are increasing the percentage
of fresh produce we source locally
* Improve air quality through reduction of gas usage and vehicle miles
traveled, as well as increasing the amount of plants being grown and
therefore producing oxygen
* Promote a green economy through employment of farm workers with safe,
environmentally-sound working conditions (i.e. no chemical pesticides)
* Reducing water runoff by having farming and plants instead of an empty
field
* Reducing waste through compost, utilizing “seconds” or “misfits” (i.e. an
oddly-shaped zucchini might not sell at a store), and getting food farm-to-
TABLE faster and fresher than food shipped across the country
C2. Do you have
another project to
add?
No
Funding Request Summary Please list all proposed projects (please list
project name only) for which you are requesting Community Climate Action
Grant funding for Fiscal Year 2025-26. Make sure to include a brief
description of the proposed use of funds. Applicants will be asked to
provide more details on their proposed project budget in the Budget
W orksheets linked template.
C3. Total Funding
Request
50000
C4. Describe your
proposed use of
funds. (150 word
limit)
TABLE is respectfully requesting a $50,000 Orange County Climate Action
Grant. Funding would be used specifically for:
$14,000 for labor at the Twin Creeks expansion site
$22,000 for other equipment, supplies, and tools at Twin Creeks (including
fencing, tools, tillers, beds, tarps, irrigation systems, seeds, etc.)
$14,000 for labor at W ildflower Lane Farm
A grant of $50,000 would provide critical support, allowing us to farm
organically and regeneratively, feeding local kids in an environmentally
conscious way. W e anticipate this expense being just a fraction of the total
value we receive from the land to feed 1,250 kids in 25-26!
C5. If a full award for
your project is not
possible, can/will you
accept partial funding
and still be
successful?
Yes
Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
Please explain how
your project can still
be successful if you
don't receive the full
requested amount.
(200 word limit)
Any amount granted will go directly toward growing food for children in an
environmentally sustainable way. TABLE has applied to several other
grants this summer for the Twin Creeks project and we are waiting to hear
back. Any funding not received through grants will be raised in other ways
(such as individual donors and events) or pulled from other programmatic
funds.
A grant of $50,000 would provide a vital funding source for both the Twin
Creeks expansion and continuing at W ildflower Lane Farm. Funding of
$27,000 would fully cover the Twin Creeks portion of our 2025-26
expenses.
If we do not receive this grant, our staff will have to spend more time
searching for and seeking out funding sources instead of working to
improve and expand our programs. Additionally, we will have fewer funds
available to reach more children and to sustain children already
participating in our main hunger-relief program.
Section D. Scored Criteria Criterion 1 - Social Justice and Racial Equity
This criterion has a maximum score of 6 points (out of a total of 26 points).
D1. W ho will directly
or indirectly benefit
from your project?
Please be as
specific as possible
on the
characteristics of
those who will benefit
including, gender,
race, age, income
level and geographic
location. (200 word
limit)
TABLE began by feeding 12 elementary-school children in 2008 and has
grown to now feeding 1,125+ children every week across Orange County -
with a waitlist. W e anticipate growing to feed 1,250 children in the coming
year. Between CHCCS and OCS districts, about 7,000 children participate
in the free/reduced school meal program - there is significant need for food
assistance in our county. TABLE’s participating children are all ages 0-20.
W hile only 26% of our county’s residents are people of color,
disproportionately over 85% of our participants are children of color and
almost half speak a language other than English at home. Nearly every one
of their families live at or below 80% AMI (a standard measurement for low-
income) and experienced low food security prior to participating in TABLE.
Poor health outcomes disproportionately affect children of color, and
TABLE seeks to improve the equitable distribution of healthy food in our
community among children of all backgrounds.
D2. W hat are the
demographics of the
area where your
project takes place?
(150 word limit)
N/A - this project will take place in an unused field at 8016 Old NC 86.
D3. Does your
project help to
address any racial
disparities in the
location it is
proposed for? (200
word limit)
W hile only 26% of our county’s residents are people of color,
disproportionately over 85% of our participants are children of color and
almost half speak a language other than English at home. No child should
worry about their next meal. TABLE serves children in need of food
regardless of background, race, or ethnicity. By serving children based on
equity guidelines (see D9) we seek to eliminate the racial gap in hunger so
ALL kids have plenty to eat.
Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
D4. Please list any
data sources used in
reference to D1, D2,
and D3 and show the
steps of any
calculations. (300
word limit)
CHCCS and OCS free/reduced meal participation numbers obtained from
their Child Nutrition departments in Fall 2024.
Income data of TABLE families is self-reported and compared with data
here: https://www.orangecountync.gov/1083/Affordable-Housing-101
Orange County race data https://www.orangecountync.gov/2777/Facts-
Demographics
D4a. Optional file
upload to show the
steps of any
calculations.
D5. Please describe
any ways in which
low-income or
marginalized
communities/households
were engaged in the
creation of this
project proposal.
(150 word limit)
Each year, TABLE distributes our annual survey to all participating parents.
This includes questions about food preferences, impact on health and well-
being, enjoyment of programming, culturally-relevant food needs, and more.
Based on 2024-25’s survey, we know that families want both more fresh
food than canned, processed food AND want more nutrition education. By
expanding our partnerships with local farms such as W ildflower Lane/Twin
Creeks, we are able to increase the amount of fresh food we are
distributing and also open up opportunities to take our monthly Family Fun
Day program out to the nearby farm for fun educational events.
D6. Please describe
any potential
negative side effects
of the project and
describe the steps
you are taking/will
take to eliminate or
minimize these
impacts to any low-
income or
marginalized
communities/households.
(200 word limit)
There are no foreseeable negative side effects to low-income or
marginalized communities or households. The intention is that they will only
benefit (see D17).
D7. Are the impacted
residents already
aware of the
potential positive and
negative impacts of
your project and the
steps you are
taking? If not, please
describe your plan to
engage with them
and how you will act
based on their input.
(200 word limit)
There are no foreseeable negative impacts to nearby residents. This
project has already been approved by Orange County DEAPR. The main
positive/neutral impact is that residents in the area will now have a farm
instead of an empty field nearby, improving the local air quality and bringing
pollinators to the area.
Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
D8. During and after
the project, what will
your continued
engagement with the
impacted community
be? (200 word limit)
TABLE delivers food to kids year-round for as long as their families need.
The intention is that this project will continue for the foreseeable future - we
have a 3-year lease (at a token $100/year). Children and families will
continue to receive healthy locally-grown food as long as TABLE is around.
Residents of the area are welcome to volunteer on the farm project as well!
D9. Please describe
any other aspect of
your project that is
relevant to Social
Justice,
Environmental
Justice and Racial
Equity. (200 word
limit)
TABLE has implemented new equity criteria for bringing families off the
waitlist so that families who are most in need are prioritized. These equity
guidelines include income, housing status, number of wage earners,
number of children, length of time on our waitlist, and other factors. Our
intention is that those who are most in need of food will be able to access it
the most quickly.
Additionally, we have changed our menu several times over the years and
work to provide customization as much as possible to account for a variety
of ethnic palates, preferences, and needs (for example, Halal for Muslim
families, or limited canned food when families request it - typically those
newer to the United States, or beans/rice for those who prefer it).
Criterion 2 - Emissions Reduced This criterion has a maximum score of 4
points (out of a total of 26 points). Please see the Grant Project website
for estimation tools and the Background and Information document for
information about technical assistance. Applicants are encouraged to ask
for clarification and technical assistance as early as possible and no later
than the posted deadline for questions.
D10a. Does your
project save on
electricity (solar
projects should say
"yes" to this)?
No
D10b. Does your
project save on
gasoline?
Yes
How many gallons are saved per year?
Criterion 2_ Gallons CO2e (3).xlsx
D10c. Does your
project save on
natural gas?
No
D10d. Does your
project save on food
waste?
Yes
How many pounds of food waste are saved per year?
Criterion 2_ Pound waste CO2e.xlsx
Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
D10e. Is your project
nature-based? (For
example, community
gardens, tree
plantings, soil health
practices, and prairie
restoration projects)
Yes
If you have a nature-based project, these tools can help you calculate
greenhouse gas emission reductions: COMET-Planner W ebsite
(http://comet-planner.com) Best for: Soil health, forest restoration,
grasslands, conservation practices. Select state and land management
practice - Get GHG reduction estimates per acre - User-friendly | - USDA-
backed | - No login required i-Tree Tools W ebsite
(https://www.itreetools.org) Best for: Tree planting, urban forestry,
community canopy projects. Note: Requires tree species and location
W ant help estimating your project’s emissions reductions? Orange County
staff can assist! Email: sustainability@orangecountync.gov for support.
How does your
nature-based project
reduce greenhouse
gas emissions and
what metrics can you
share that help
quantify this impact?
(Example metrics are
the number of acres
restored and the
number of trees
planted)
Growing food for TABLE at Twin Creeks utilizes the following
environmentally-healthy practices:
* Cover crops used every year, including grains and legumes for increasing
nitrogen content of the soil. Twin Creeks is 3 acres and when using the
COMET-Planner, the calculator said 3 metric tons CO2e saved per year.
* Permanent raised planting beds (with more organic matter that hold more
water) with walkways that eliminate runoff from heavy rains, and pipes are
being installed under the driveway to prevent water runoff from going over
the road and it is being diverted into the drainage ditch
* After the very initial tilling of the land to begin planting, it will be no-till
* No herbicide or insecticide sprays
* Organic principles applied, organic supplements only
* Local compost used
* Companion planting
* Succession planting
* Increased organic matter content from 2% to 8%
* Pollinator flowers grown
D10f. Does your
project reduce
emissions in some
way other than what
was listed above?
No
Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
D11. How many
TOTAL metric tons of
greenhouse gas
emissions will your
project reduce or
avoid OVER THE
LIFETIME of the
project? [Please use
the number(s)
calculated above
(row 4 of tables), or
provide your own
estimate if those
figures were
insufficient or if you
have additional
measures to include.]
304.1
D12. W ere any
additional
calculations required
in coming up with the
number entered
above (this includes
adding two or more
numbers together)?
Yes
Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
Please list any data
sources used and
show the steps of
your calculations.
Feel free to submit in
a separate document
if clearly labeled.
(500 word limit)
The average pound of tomatoes sold in the U.S. supermarket travels 1,569
food miles and emits .21 kg CO2, according to farmanddairy.com - and
multiple other online sources estimated similar numbers as well.
Food coming from South America (bananas, avocados, and tropical fruit)
would be even farther, such as 2,900 miles from Guatemala to California
and then 2,600 additional miles from California to North Carolina.
Food at Twin Creeks would only be traveling 5 miles by car.
The average semi-truck gets 6-8 miles per gallon, for these purposes we
will average it at 7 miles per gallon https://haletrailer.com/blog/semi-truck-
fuel-efficiency/. The average plane gets .2 miles per gallon
https://www.halibrite.com/aviation-insights-trends/amazing-airplane-facts/.
For car, we will estimate 22 miles per gallon based on some of the
estimates here https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/advice/most-fuel-
efficient-3-row-suvs.
Gas emissions are based on Orange County’s document here
https://www.orangecountync.gov/DocumentCenter/View/32058/Emissions-
Reduction-Calculations.
Let’s just say that once per week, 50 weeks per year, TABLE replaces 2 of
our wholesale menu items with 2 locally grown, seasonally varied
vegetables at Twin Creeks. (Currently, about 4+ of our 12 fresh food items
every week are locally sourced - with fewer in the winter and closer to 7 in
the summer.)
Item 1: grown & shipped the “average” distance as described above. By
switching to locally grown, that’s 1,569 miles saved per trip at 50 weeks
per year = 78,450 miles per year, or 11,207 gallons using the semi-truck
MPG rate. 99 Metric tons CO2e.
Item 2: grown & shipped from South America to California by plane, driven
from California to North Carolina by semi-truck. By switching to locally
grown, that’s 2,900x50=145,000 miles saved by plane per year &
2,600x50=130,000 miles saved by truck per year = 725,000 gallons by
plane & 18,571 gallons by truck = 743,571 gallons total. 6,610 Metric tons
CO2e.
If these two items per week are driven in a car for 5 miles from Twin
Creeks to TABLE, 50 weeks per year = 250 miles by car per year = 11
gallons of gas. .09 Metric tons CO2e usage.
Combined with items 1 and 2, that’s 6,708 Metric tons CO2e saved in 1
year of growing at Twin Creeks.
OR, if we were to swap out 2 items that both come from the average
distance of 1,569 miles away, that’s still about 98 Metric tons CO2e saved
per year. For the purpose of the table I am filling in, I will use this
calculation only. 11,207 gallons (semi-truck) minus 11 gallons (car - Twin
Creeks) = 11,196 gallons saved.
Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
Option file upload to
show additional
calculations.
D13a. How many
YEARS will this
emissions reduction
take place as a result
of your project?
Please consider the
expected lifetime of
the
technology/program/impact,
etc. Note: Solar
installations should
enter 25 years as
the project lifetime.
3
D13b. Please explain
how you came up
with the number of
years in the previous
question and add any
other relevant
information. Please
list any sources
used. (200 word limit)
TABLE and W ildflower Lane’s license agreement with Orange County for
use of the land at Twin Creeks is for 3 years.
D14. Please
describe the location
of the emissions
reduction. W here
would fossil fuels
have been burned if
not for your project?
For projects that
reduce electricity
usage or that
generate solar
energy, feel free to
state “grid-tied
electricity reduction”
if you cannot
determine the
location of emissions
produced from
electric power
generation. (200
word limit)
Fossil fuels would have been burned across the country with airplane and
semi-truck usage.
Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
D15. Please
describe any other
aspect of your
project that is
relevant to the
amount of emissions
that it will reduce or
avoid. (250 word
limit)
N/A
Criterion 3 - Efficient Use of Funds This criterion has a maximum score of
4 pts (out of a total of 26 pts). Please see the Grant Project website for
further guidance and the Background and Information document for
information about technical assistance. Applicants are encouraged to ask
for clarification and technical assistance as early as possible and no later
than the posted deadline for questions.
D16. Is this a new
project?
Yes
The table below is
meant to support the
calculations of your
project's impact;
however, it may not
capture all aspects of
a project.
If the table is not able to capture the correct numbers for your project,
please enter "N/A" in those specific fields and upload an additional
document with this information.
Project Impact (do not enter a $ in front of the numbers)
Criterion 3 - Project Impact (New) (7).xlsx
Optional file upload
for project impact
calculations.
D17. Are there
additional impacts?
Yes
Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
Please describe the
additional units of
impact your project
has.
Kids should be able to play, learn, grow, and just be kids without worrying
about their next meal. Because of TABLE:
* 97% of kids consume more fruits/vegetables per week
* 79% of parents purchase more nutritious food when grocery shopping
* 63% of kids experience improved physical health such as fewer stomach
aches, fewer headaches, more manageable diabetes or obesity, etc.
* 62% of kids experience improved mental health such as fewer hunger-
related distractions in class (irritability, headaches, tiredness) and
improved ability to focus, remember, and learn
W hen asked how food from TABLE benefits their children, parents said:
* “W ith TABLE, I have learned to cook healthy… Before, one of my
daughters started having problems with her blood pressure, but when her
diet changed, she improved, and I owe that largely to TABLE because it
provides me with nutritious foods, which I am making the most of.”
* “Adjusted to their correct projected weight curve per child per age. No
longer needs supplemental nutrition by way of Pediasure!”
* “Their energy is high, they sleep better at night because of complete
meals, & want to go outside & play.”
* "Sometimes, we don't have enough money to buy food for our family. The
help from TABLE greatly supports our family's food needs. Our family is
eating healthily and happily because of the help from TABLE."
* “Thanks to TABLE, my son has lunch every day.”
W ith the Climate Action Grant, we can positively impact the local
environment, local food system, and local children. Kids can “have lunch
every day,” eat “healthily and happily” and “go outside and play!”
D18. Please
describe any avoided
financial costs or
savings related to
the project and over
what period of time
those costs will be
avoided/reduced.
(250 word limit)
The first year TABLE partnered with W ildflower Lane, TABLE supplied
$4,500 for materials and supplies and received $45,000 in organic
produce. In 2024, TABLE supplied $26,000 for materials and part time
labor, and received $130,000 in produce (retail price at local stores). W e
anticipate a similar return on investment with this expansion into Twin
Creeks.
D19. Does your
project accelerate or
expand on existing
programs that
already show
positive impact?
(150 word limit)
Yes. TABLE already has significant success (and subsequent impact on
kids in our community) with our partnership at W ildflower Lane. This project
is an expansion of that into Twin Creeks Park.
Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
D20. Does your
project take
advantage of other
funding sources? If
yes, please describe.
(150 word limit)
Yes. Of the $81,000 budget, we have received a donation from an
individual for $15,000. W e have also applied to other grants in hopes of
raising the entire remaining $66,000.
D21. W ould your
proposed project help
you to take
advantage of funding
from other sources
besides this grant in
the future? (250 word
limit)
Receiving an Community Climate Action Grant would help TABLE take
advantage of the license agreement that Orange County has granted us.
W ithout funding, we will not be able to best utilize that land to grow food for
kids.
D22. Please
describe any other
aspect of your
project that is
relevant to the
efficient use of grant
funds. (150 word
limit)
Because W ildflower Lane Farm and the Twin Creeks expansion utilize
TABLE volunteers as much as possible (there is paid part-time labor to
direct and guide volunteers), it means that every donation and grant toward
this project is stretched even further. W hat’s more is that Jim and
W ildflower Lane do not make a profit and funds that go toward this project
simply cover the basic costs of growing food to feed kids. This is a very
efficient use of funds.
Criterion 4 - Capacity of Applicant This criterion has a maximum score of 3
pts (out of a total of 26 pts).
D23. Has your
organization
completed projects of
this type in the past?
Yes
If so, what funds
were used? (100
word limit)
Our current funding is diversified between individuals, grants, foundations,
events, and local organizations. W e utilize a variety of funding tactics
including grant writing, donor cultivation, fundraising appeals, events, and
business sponsorships to raise necessary funds for all projects.
D24. Have you
completed similar
projects in the past
and successfully met
the proposed
budgets and
timelines?
Yes
Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
Please provide a
description of similar
past achievements
or projects and
evidence of
successfully meeting
proposed budgets
and timetables. (150
word limit)
TABLE has been delivering healthy food to kids for 17 years and including
local, Orange-County grown produce in our bags of food for almost that
entire time. Successes include:
* Growing from 12 kids our first week to now delivering food to over 1,125
children weekly.
* Incorporating nutrition education for over a dozen years to give kids the
knowledge and means to improve their own health.
* Over 60% of participating kids experience improved physical health with
food from TABLE.
* Successfully completing our $3.25M capital campaign thanks to generous
donors in order to expand to a permanent home where we can grow to feed
more local kids in need.
* Our annual revenue is stable and continues to increase, ensuring that this
is a sustainable program. W e have a track record of success meeting our
budget each year since our founding in 2008.
D25. If you are
proposing to
collaborate with other
organizations on this
project, please
describe their
relevant experience
to the project and/or
the target population.
(150 word limit)
Jim Sander, farmer at W ildflower Lane, has been working as a small-scale
regenerative farmer for 15 years. The first 7 years he farmed for profit,
selling produce in Orange County and he has significant expertise in this
area.
After 7 years he approached TABLE and we piloted a partnership that’s
now entering its 8th year. The first year TABLE supplied $4,500 for
materials and supplies and received $45,000 in organic produce. In 2024,
TABLE supplied $26,000 for materials and part time labor, and received
$130,000 in produce (retail price at local stores).
Our partnership has been carefully honed after years of growing and
distributing food together, and we are confident in the value and success of
the model. W e wish to expand to grow even more at Twin Creeks and put a
dent in childhood hunger.
D26. Have your
collaborators/partners
completed projects of
this type in the past?
Yes
If so, what funds
were used? (100
word limit)
Our current funding is diversified between individuals, grants, foundations,
events, and local organizations. W e utilize a variety of funding tactics
including grant writing, donor cultivation, fundraising appeals, events, and
business sponsorships to raise necessary funds for all projects.
D27. Please
describe any other
relevant expertise or
capacity to carry out
the project in your
application. (250
word limit)
Some of our strongest partnerships are with local farmers, including
W ildflower Lane, Farmer Foodshare, Sankofa, Gabor, Faithfull Farms and
Elysian Fields Farms. W orking collaboratively, we positively impact the
health of our kids AND the sustainability of our local food system. Over
35% of produce is locally sourced, including BIPOC and woman-owned
farms, keeping dollars local; providing high quality, organic fresh food for
kids; and keeping small farms stable. So while W ildflower Lane and its Twin
Creeks expansion is a unique partnership, we have extensive relevant
expertise collaborating with local farms to distribute food to kids.
Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
D28. Please
describe any prior
challenges you have
encountered in past
grants and how you
have worked through
them. How may this
impact this proposed
project? (150 word
limit)
TABLE has successfully applied for, been awarded, and expended well
over a hundred grants during our history. W e have not had significant
challenges with past grants and do not anticipate any issues with this
proposed project.
D29. Please
describe one to three
key partnerships/
collaborations that
add the most value to
the success of the
proposed project.
(250 word limit)
Jim Sander at W ildflower Lane Farm is the primary partner for this project
as described in D25.
D30. If this project is
not selected for
funding in this round,
what other funding
might be used to
support it within the
next 5 years?
Other grants, capital or operational funds
Criterion 5 - Local Economic Development This criterion has a maximum
score of 3 points (out of a total of 26 points).
D31. How many
Orange County
residents are
employed by your
organization?
Three TABLE staff members plus farmer Jim Sander (integral to this
project) live in Orange County.
D32. W hat project
materials will be
purchased from
sources within
Orange County or
North Carolina?
W hat percent of the
total materials do
these represent?
(200 word limit)
Purchased in Orange County: compost, hand tools, tiller, tool shed, soil
amendments, seedling trays, vegetable bins, fencing supplies, water
connection supplies
Local Orange County contractors have been or will be used for water
access, OW ASA water setup, fence installation, and bed preparation.
Most materials are purchased locally in Orange County except for seeds
and seedlings.
Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
D33. Please
describe any other
aspect of your
project that is
relevant to local
economic
development. (100
word limit)
Sourcing food locally is always best for the local economy! Our dollars,
donor dollars, are not going toward another state or country but are staying
right here in Orange County to source food for local kids. W e are
reinvesting back into our own community.
Criterion 6 - Amount and Duration of Engagement This criterion has a
maximum score of 3 pts (out of a total of 26 pts).
D34. Please
describe the target
population to benefit
from the project. (200
word limit)
TABLE began by feeding 12 elementary-school children in 2008 and has
grown to now feeding 1,125+ children every week across Orange County -
with a waitlist. W e anticipate growing to feed 1,250 children in the coming
year. TABLE’s participating children are all ages 0-20. W hile only 26% of
our county’s residents are people of color, disproportionately over 85% of
our participants are children of color and almost half speak a language
other than English at home. Nearly every one of their families live at or
below 80% AMI (a standard measurement for low-income) and experienced
low food security prior to participating in TABLE. Poor health outcomes
disproportionately affect children of color, and TABLE seeks to improve the
equitable distribution of healthy food in our community among children of all
backgrounds.
D35a. How many
people will benefit
from your project in
one year? (This is
the same number
from row 8 in the
D16 table above)
1250
D35b. Please
describe how you
arrived at this
number. (200 word
limit)
TABLE delivers food to over 1,125 kids weekly currently. W e have a
waitlist of around 200 children and anticipate feeding 1,250 children weekly
in the coming year (we will still have a waitlist). W e include fresh, local
produce in all standard bags of food we deliver to kids.
Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
D36. Please
describe how you will
engage with and/or
educate project
participants and/or
the community. (250
word limit)
TABLE doesn’t just send out healthy food and hope for the best. W e
ensure kids have the means to learn about nutrition, good eating habits,
cooking, and improving their health.
Through our Chefs@Home program, TABLE delivers monthly nutrition kits
to encourage families to get excited about cooking together. One kit
included: fresh local basil (grown by Jim Sander and volunteers at
W ildflower Lane Farm), a recipe for pesto, all needed ingredients, link to
our cooking video, and a pot, soil, and seeds for kids to grow their own
basil at home. Access to, exposure to, and education around fresh produce
increases consumption and therefore overall health. Over 60% of our
participants have improved physical health. Plus, research shows that
family meals improve everyone’s health, and nearly 70% of our participants
report having more family meals with TABLE.
Plus, our Family Fun Days provide opportunities for engagement with
participants, fun family-friendly activities like Zumba, cooking (smoothies,
homemade pizzas, and more), and farmers’ market field trips to visit our
other local farm partners’ stalls. W e are hoping to also have on-site farm
days for families this coming year (‘25-26)!
W e’re the only local nonprofit delivering nourishing food and nutrition
education straight to children's homes every week. Through expanding our
W ildflower Lane Farm partnership to include Twin Creeks, we are
increasing the impact we’re making on the local food system, on the
environment, and ultimately on kids’ health both today and longterm.
D37. How will you
measure the success
of that engagement
or educational effort?
(200 word limit)
Each year, TABLE distributes our annual survey to all participating parents.
This includes questions about food preferences, impact on health and well-
being, enjoyment of programming, culturally-relevant food needs, and more.
W e will be able to see if families attend and enjoy the Family Fun Days, if
they are utilizing the meal kits, and if parents report that their children
experience better eating habits and improved physical health from having
access to adequate healthy food.
D38. Is there
anything else you
would like to add
about the benefits of
your project, how
much community
engagement and/or
education it will
create, or how long it
will last? (150 word
limit)
N/A
Criterion 7 - Time to Complete This criterion has a maximum score of 3
points (out of a total of 26 points).
Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
D39. How long will it
take your project to
complete and
demonstrate the
positive impacts you
describe? (200 word
limit)
TABLE has a license agreement with Orange County to use Twin Creeks
Park for 3 years. W ater has already been set up with OW ASA. The first
acre of land has already been started on, rocks have been removed, and
initial work begun to plant for the fall. The plan for the rest of 2025 is to
plant and harvest on the first of three acres at Twin Creeks, evaluate what
worked and what could be improved, and develop a preliminary plan for
2026. In 2026, expansion will begin for us to grow on the second acre, with
the third acre the following year.
Vegetables and other produce will be available, distributed to TABLE, and
delivered directly to kids’ homes this first year, making an immediate
positive impact both on children and the air quality/greenhouse emissions
in our community.
Section 5. Attachments
D40. Applicant
Organization’s
Budget
Please complete your organization budget using the template that can be
found here. Please submit the budget in PDF form.
Applicant Organization’s Budget File Upload
TABLE_Agency_Budget_W orksheet_FY25-26.pdf
D41. Applicant
Project Budget
Please complete your project budget using the template that can be found
here. Please submit the budget in PDF form.
Applicant Project Budget File Upload
2025_OC_Climate_Action_Grant_Project_Budget.pdf
D42. IRS Federal
Form 990 or 2024
Tax Returns
A copy of the applicant organization’s most recent IRS Form 990 or IRS
Tax Return is required to determine eligibility. The specific form depends
upon the applicant organization’s financial activity. Review the IRS guide
for more details. For Form 990-N (e-postcard) filers, include a copy of the
postcard, with the organization’s application materials. �� Redact/black
out all sensitive information such as social security numbers, personal
home addresses, and personal phone numbers from all individuals before
uploading these documents.
IRS Federal Form 990 or 2024 Tax Returns File Upload
2023_Form_990.pdf
D42a. IRS Federal
Form 990 or 2024
Tax Returns for
collaborator/partner
(if they are receiving
project funds)
A copy of the collaborator/partner’s most recent IRS Form 990 or IRS Tax
Return is required to determine eligibility. The specific form depends upon
the organization’s financial activity. Review the IRS guide for more details.
For Form 990-N (e-postcard) filers, include a copy of the postcard, with the
organization’s application materials. Redact/black out all sensitive
information such as social security numbers before uploading these
documents.
IRS Federal Form 990 or 2024 Tax Returns for collaborator/partner File Upload
2024_Jim_Sander_Tax_Returns.pdf
Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
D43. If awarded, a
Certificate of Liability
Insurance (COI) will
be required of the
organization.
Organizations that
have not already
provided an EFT and
W -9 to Orange
County will need to
do so.
Certificate of Liability Insurance A copy of the applicant organization’s
current certificate, from the organization’s insurance carrier. Table 1 below
outlines insurance types and minimums required, for each jurisdiction. If
exempt from W orker’s Compensation compliance, include a statement
explaining why, with the applicant organization’s application materials. The
copy of the applicant organization’s current certificate must include all
information in the highlighted sections and be worded exactly as presented
in the example linked here. NOTE: Proof of insurance is not required at the
time of application submission. If your agency is approved for funding,
documentation of insurance must be provided to the jurisdiction awarding
the funding when the contract is awarded. The insurance certificate should
reflect the funding jurisdiction as an additional insured party and certificate
holder and provide coverage for the duration of the funding period (two
years, beginning as early as October 1, 2024). If proof of insurance can
only be written for one year, an update will be required for all ongoing
projects. Renewal certificates must be sent to the jurisdiction 30 days prior
to any expiration date, cancellation or modification of any stipulated
insurance coverage. NOTE: Upon request, insurance requirements may be
reviewed on a case by case basis by the County. Please contact the staff
identified on the Submission Requirements on Page 12 if you have
questions or would like to request a review of your insurance requirements.
The table below includes guidance regarding the forms of liability insurance and minimum policy
amounts that are required if a grant is awarded.
Table 1. Forms of Liability Insurance and Minimum Policy Amounts Required (1).xlsx
I understand that if
awarded, my
organization will have
to submit a
Certificate of Liability
Insurance (COI). A
W -9 and an EFT
(Electronic Funds
Transfer) are also
required if applicable.
checked
D44. List of Board of Directors (if applicable)
Board of Directors.xlsx
W e welcome your
thoughts on how to
improve our
application! Please
add those thoughts
below.
Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
You are about to
submit your
application.
Orange County Sustainability will not accept any applications after the due
date. Correcting mistakes or making edits after your application has been
submitted is not allowed. For any technical questions about the platform,
please visit THIS W EBSITE. To complete and submit your application click
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safelist notifications from Submittable?Orange
Internal Form
Score n/a
Internal Review - GHG Data
Are the numbers in
D16 (row 8) and
D35a the same?
Yes
Project Impact
Lifetime (years)
3
Project Impact
Lifetime (years)
Comments
GHG Reduction
(Annual, metric tons
CO2e)
101.4
GHG Reduction
(Annual, metric tons
CO2e) Comments
Reaching out to ICLEI to help check the number of gallons saved and they
responded that it was reasonable assuming the project reduces on the
order of 250,000 vehicle miles annually.
GHG Reduction
(Lifetime, metric tons
CO2e)
304.1
GHG Reduction
(Lifetime, metric tons
CO2e) Comments
# of people served in
one year
1250
# of people served in
one year comments
Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
GHG Data Complete checked
GHG Data
Comments
Other Staff
Comments
BOCC & CFE Review Data and Notes
Overall Comments
from HRC (BOCC
Report)
Good way to mix land and support reducing hunger amongst marginalized
communities—Not only does this make use of natural land, but this is also
serving our local community needs around hunger with local solutions and
opportunities. From a social justice and racial equity lens, this is
specifically working to address childhood hunger in our county and appears
to be a proven and working model worthy of support with an already
approved usage of county land—Sustainability should be addressed to
clarify the roles of paid labor and volunteers.
Recommended
Application
checked
CFE Recommended
Funding (enter $0 if
not recommending)
30000
Application Ranking 7
Overall Comments
from CFE Meeting
(BOCC Report)
CFE strongly supports this project but provided partial funding since the
group has access to other funding sources. HRC scored them #1. High OC
economic impact (for families who receive food, all food grown locally) and
social justice component.
Notes for Applicant
Contracting
Award Amount
(Format as follows:
$XX,XXX.XX)
$30,000.00
Does this applicant
have a W 9 and EFT
in the system?
No
Correctly Submitted
Contracting
Documents:
Contracting Status
Vendor Number
Grant Project Implementation
Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
GHG Reduction
(Annual, metric tons
CO2e) / GHG
Reduction (Lifetime,
metric tons CO2e)
have adjusted.
unchecked
Post Award Status
Comments
Award Tracker Notes
Grant Project Completion
Payment Complete.unchecked
Final Reported GHG
Reduction (Lifetime,
metric tons CO2e)
Final Reported GHG
Reduction (Lifetime,
metric tons CO2e)
Comments
Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
Operating Budget for entire Agency
Actual
2023-2024
Projected
2024-2025
Projected
2025-2026
Percent
Change
1,465,890$ 1,848,614$ 2,038,975$ 10%
-$ -$ -$ 0
10,000$ 15,000$ 17,500$ 17%
99,566$ -$ -$ 0
23,000$ 27,500$ 30,000$ 9%
5,000$ -$ -$ 0
23,000$ 27,500$ 30,000$ 9%
-$ -$ -$ 0
-$ -$ -$ 0
12,500.00$ 12,500.00$ 15,000.00$ 0.20$
-$ -$ -$ 0
-$ -$ -$ 0
Private Foundation Grants 300,080$ 417,500.00$ 452,000.00$ 0.08$
Events 709,497$ 372,000$ 409,200$ 0.10$
2,648,533$ 2,720,614$ 2,992,675$ 10%
351,279$ 454,742$ 530,000$ 17%
83,224$ 47,916$ 52,708$ 10%
21,437$ 24,106$ 26,517$ 10%
1,157,196$ 1,688,311$ 2,300,000$ 36%
23,905$ 42,369$ 46,606$ 10%
14,068$ 17,383$ 19,121$ 10%
256,690$ 331,495$ 400,000$ 21%
Rent & Utilities 9,247$ 5,324$ 5,856$ 10%
27,651$ 27,000$ 29,700$ 10%
32,155$ 36,159$ 39,775$ 10%
15,936$ 28,246$ 31,071$ 10%
9,379$ 11,589$ 12,748$ 10%
1,651,109$ 2,274,827$ 2,955,830$ 30%
Total Non-Program Expenses 351,058$ 439,813$ 2,444,951$ 456%
646,366$ 5,974$ 36,845$ 517%
Please explain Other Grants
Does your program budget show a surplus or deficit? Please provide a brief explanation for the surplus or deficit.
IT
Operations & Insurance
Office Expenses
Federal Government (CDBG/HOME/etc.)
Total Program Revenue
PROGRAM EXPENSES
Compensation, Employee Expenses, Prof. Dev'mt.
Other Revenue
Agency Budget
Rent & Utilities
State Government
Human Services - Town of Chapel Hill
Other - Town of Chapel Hill
Human Services - Orange County
Other - Orange County
Other - Town of Hillsborough
Other Government Grants
Triangle United Way
PROGRAM REVENUE
Private Donations
Program Generated Revenue
Local Government Grants:
Human Services - Town of Carrboro
AGENCY NAME:TABLE
Operations & Insurance
TABLE applies for and receives several dozen grants each year from corporate and
family foundations, in addition to your funding.
We are actively working towards operating sustainably, so to have a surplus helps us to do so because of the following reasons: We
still have a $1M loan we decided to keep because investing made more financial sense. We expect to pay it off in 2027. We have a
waitlist that continues to grow and a desire to strengthen our impact on health. So needs and expenses continue to increase.
Other - Town of Carrboro - ARPA
SURPLUS/(DEFICIT) FOR PERIOD:
Food & Nutrition Education
IT
Total Program Expenses
NON-PROGRAM EXPENSES
Compensation, Employee Expenses, Prof. Dev'mt.
Development & Fundraising
Office Expenses
FY 2025-26 Agency Budget
Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
FY 2025-26 Agency Budget
Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
Use for all projects
PROJECT REVENUE
Actual Total for
Previous Year
Estimated Total
for Current Year
Projected Total
for Next Year 25-
26
Percent
Change
Private Donations -$ -$ 15,000$ 0
Project Generated Revenue:-$ -$ -$ 0
Local Government Grants
(Please list individually):
Orange County Community Climate Action Grant -$ -$ 50,000$ 0
TBD (applied for other grants)-$ -$ 16,000$ 0
-$ -$ -$ 0
-$ -$ -$ 0
Other Government Grants
Local Government -$ -$ -$ 0
State Government -$ -$ -$ 0
Federal Government (CDBG/HOME/etc.)-$ -$ -$ 0
Private Foundation Grants -$ -$ -$ 0
-$ -$ -$ 0
Total Project Revenue -$ -$ 81,000$ 0
PROJECT EXPENSES
Labor at Twin Creeks expansion (note that unpaid TABLE volunteers comprise much of the labor)-$ -$ 12,000$ 0
Supplies at Twin Creeks (including fencing, tools, beds, tarps, irrigation, seeds, etc.)-$ -$ 15,000$ 0
Labor and supplies at Wildflower Lane Farm (fewer supplies needed since this is already an existing farm)-$ -$ 54,000$ 0
-$ -$ -$ 0
-$ -$ -$ 0
Total Project Expenses -$ -$ 81,000$ 0
SURPLUS/(DEFICIT) FOR PERIOD:-$ -$ -$ 0
Note: Our total budget for maintaining the Orange-County-based Wildflower Lane Farm and the Twin Creeks expansion is
$81,000. CO2e reduction calculations in the grant only included Twin Creeks since it is new; however, the same growing
practices and reduction to greenhouse emissions apply to Wildflower Lane as well, it's just already an existing program.
We anticipate this expense being just a fraction of the total value of production we receive from the land to provide for our 1,250
kids in 25-26!
Project Budget
Other Revenue: please briefly explain here
PROJECT NAME: Twin Creeks Farm Expansion (TABLE + Wildflower Lane Farm)
Use only if project is ongoing
FY 2018-19 Program Budget
Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date:January 20, 2026
Action Agenda
Item No.6-a
SUBJECT: Community Climate Action Grant (CCAG) –FY 2025-26 Project Selection
DEPARTMENT: County Manager
ATTACHMENT(S):
1. CCAG 2025-26 Project
Descriptions, Scoring and
Comments
2. CCAG Project Status Summary
Including Estimated GHG
Reductions
3. PowerPoint Presentation
4.
INFORMATION CONTACT:
Amy Eckberg; (919) 245-2626
PURPOSE:
1. To receive the grant project funding recommendations from the Commission for the
Environment (CFE) and the overall scores and comments from the CFE and Human
Relations Commission (HRC) for the FY 2025-26 Orange County Community Climate
Action Grant Program; and
2. Approve funding for the recommended Community Climate Action Grant projects for FY
2025-26 as outlined in the table below and further described in Attachment 1.
BACKGROUND: As part of the FY 2019-20 budget, the Orange County Board of Commissioners
(BOCC) established the Orange County Community Climate Action Fund to accelerate climate
mitigation efforts. The Fund supports the Board’s commitment to ambitious targets, including a
transition to 100% renewable energy by 2050. The Climate Action Plan further builds on this
commitment by defining additional targets and identifying the actions and strategies needed to
achieve them.
For the FY 2025-26 funding cycle, $267,750 was allocated to general applicants to support climate
action projects designed to benefit Orange County residents both socially and financially. The
Board did not approve any climate funding for schools this year. In alignment with BOCC direction,
the selection process for awarding funds was conducted through the Community Climate Action
Grant program.
Sixteen (16) applications were received this year from applicants representing nonprofits, small
businesses and public organizations whose total requests add up to $619,095. Grant applications
were completed over the summer and reviewed by both the Commission for the Environment
(CFE) and the Human Relations Commission (HRC) in fall 2025.
The following is a rank-order summary table of the combined project scoring and
recommendations for funding. More details on each project are available in Attachment 1.
1Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
Rank Applicant
Name Project Name Project Summary Amount
Requested
Recommended
Funding
Total
Score
(out of
26)
1 Table
Ministries, Inc.
Twin Creeks
Farm Expansion
A partnership between
Wildflower Lane Farm and
Table to use unused land at
an undeveloped Orange
County Park (Twin Creeks) to
increase locally sourced,
nutritious food to feed children
served by Table.
$50,000 $30,000 21.57
2
Urban
Sustainability
Solutions, Inc.
High-School
Students
Installing Riparian
Buffers
Installation of sustainable
stormwater management
measures in historically
underserved communities
utilizing public HS teachers
and students in a certified
green infrastructure training
program to implement these
measures, especially in areas
affected by tropical storm
Chantal.
$52,000 $38,000 21.35
3
Habitat for
Humanity of
Orange County,
NC
Weatherization &
Disaster Resilient
Housing
Weatherization repairs for 11
homes $150,000 $0 20.56
4 Town of
Carrboro
Carrboro Energy
Efficiency
Program
This initiative reduces energy
burdens in Carrboro by
providing residents with
education, home energy
audits, energy-saving kits, and
guided access to rebates and
electrification upgrades
through trained community
leaders, resulting in lower bills
for over 230 households.
$29,145 $29,145 20.31
5 Trees for the
Triangle
Tree Planting and
Education
The project will plant 200
trees, distribute 2,000
seedlings, and offer
workshops on climate-resilient
tree care to expand the native
tree canopy in low-equity,
climate-vulnerable
neighborhoods through a Pay-
What-You-Can planting
program.
$50,000 $30,000 20.10
6 Red Hawk
Farm, LLC
Renewable
Energy
Infrastructure for
the Future of
Farms
52-acre organic farm
supplying high-quality produce
year-round using soil-based
greenhouse production and
technical growing strategies
seeks funds to transition from
fossil-fuel dependence to
renewable energy systems by
replacing single phase with 3-
phase power to enable solar
installation.
$30,000 $30,000 19.74
7
Upstream
Works — on
behalf of
Carolina
Community
Compost
Carolina
Community
Compost
Supplies, services, outreach
materials and labor to expand
a compost program into 7 new
neighborhoods and 1 church
$30,478 $21,300 19.70
2Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
Rank Applicant
Name Project Name Project Summary Amount
Requested
Recommended
Funding
Total
Score
(out of
26)
8
Weaver
Community
Housing
Association
Energy Efficient
Windows
Installation
Replacement of windows in 7
residential units with energy
efficient models
$61,352 $61,305 18.64
9
Hillsborough
Community
Garden
Solar powered
community
garden irrigation
Solar-powered well on nearby
church property to provide
sustainable, cost-effective
irrigation that remains
functional during drought or
emergencies
$18,000 $0 18.27
10 Solar Equity
Inc.
St. Joseph's CME
Church Solar
Project
Installation of a 23.4kW solar
array on the roof of St.
Joseph’s CME Church,
located in Chapel Hill’s
Northside Neighborhood
$28,000 $28,000 17.83
11 Pee Wee
Homes
Native focused
landscaping for
10 dignified and
affordable tiny
homes
Native, climate-resilient
landscaping for 10 affordable
tiny homes of formerly
homeless residents
$4,000 $0 17.68
12 Town of Chapel
Hill
Extension of E-
Bike Lending
Library Program
Extension of a previously
successful E-bike program for
an additional 8-12 months to
offer E-bike experiences to
more residents and staff.
$25,920 $0 16.58
13 Town of
Carrboro
E-Bike Voucher
and Education
Program
Pilot program to provide 20
income-eligible residents with
vouchers for free e-bikes,
reducing transportation
insecurity and emissions.
$33,400 $0 16.09
14 The Arts Center Cellular Blinds for
The Arts Center
Installation of highly efficient
interior cellular shades on
windows to boost the energy
performance of the building
$21,800 $0 15.73
15
Carolina
Advocates for
Climate, Health,
and Equity
Climate-informed
Prenatal Care
Introductory climate health
education sessions for health
professionals to reduce
climate-related pregnancy
risks, with a focus on extreme
heat.
$10,000 $0 15.29
16 Bluestem
Community NC
Rooftop Solar
Installation for
Bluestem
Community NC
Installation of a 9.628 kW
solar array with battery
backup on a new barn
extension to move toward net-
zero energy use
$25,000 $0 14.67
Total $619,095 $267,750
FINANCIAL IMPACT: The $267,750 funding for Community Climate Action Grants for FY 2025-
26 is designed to identify and support impactful projects, with a focus on accelerating meaningful
action on the urgent issue of climate change.
ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLAN: This item supports:
GOAL 1: ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND CLIMATE ACTION
OBJECTIVE 1. Identify the priorities and resources necessary to implement the Climate
Action Plan.
OBJECTIVE 3. Improve educational opportunities for County staff and community
members on climate action and available resources to advance climate action projects.
GOAL 2: HEALTHY COMMUNITY
3Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
OBJECTIVE 7. Invest in services and programs that improve the health and quality of life
of the community (e.g., recreation and public open spaces, arts, etc.)
RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board:
1. Receive the grant project funding recommendations from the Commission for the
Environment for the FY 2025-26 Orange County Community Climate Action Grant
program; and
2. Approve funding for the recommended Community Climate Action Grant projects for FY
2025-26.
4Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
P.O. Box 8181 * Hillsborough, North Carolina 27278
Telephone: (919)245‐2625
Attachment 1
Date: January 20, 2026
To: Board of Orange County Commissioners
From: Amy Eckberg, Sustainability Programs Manager
RE: Orange County Community Climate Action Grant – Project Descriptions, Scoring, and Comments for
General Applicants
For the 2025‐26 funding cycle of the Orange County Community Climate Action Grant program, $267,750 was
budgeted to support climate action projects that benefit Orange County residents both socially and financially.
In response to feedback from the Board in previous years, the Sustainability team continues its outreach efforts to
publicize the grant opportunity to broaden the applicant pool and increase community awareness of this impactful
climate action program. Staff conducted targeted outreach to local businesses, community groups, and nonprofits
through email campaigns, social media, newsletters, and other promotional media. Our applicant pool continues to
grow and diversify every year as a result of these efforts. The Community Climate Action grant program received a
total of 16 applications in this round whose total requests added up to $619,095.
Following the scoring and eligibility guidelines established by the Board of Orange County Commissioners (BOCC), the
applications were reviewed and scored by the Commission for the Environment (CFE) and the Human Relations
Commission (HRC). The BOCC asked the Human Relations Commission to score the applications on the Social Justice
and Racial Equity criterion, as this pertains to their expertise and because the racial representation of the CFE as a
whole does not reflect the racial diversity of Orange County.
The following is a rank‐order summary table of the combined project scoring and funding recommendations. A full
table showing the scores for each project on each of the 7 scoring elements is included in the Appendix.
Rank Applicant
Name Project Name Project Summary Amount
Requested
Recommended
Funding
Total
Score
(out of
26)
1 Table
Ministries, Inc.
Twin Creeks
Farm Expansion
A partnership between
Wildflower Lane Farm and
Table to use unused land at
an undeveloped Orange
County Park (Twin Creeks) to
increase locally sourced,
nutritious food to feed children
served by Table.
$50,000 $30,000 21.57
2
Urban
Sustainability
Solutions, Inc.
High-School
Students
Installing Riparian
Buffers
Installation of sustainable
stormwater management
measures in historically
underserved communities
utilizing public HS teachers
and students in a certified
green infrastructure training
program to implement these
measures, especially in areas
affected by tropical storm
Chantal.
$52,000 $38,000 21.35
5Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
Rank Applicant
Name Project Name Project Summary Amount
Requested
Recommended
Funding
Total
Score
(out of
26)
3
Habitat for
Humanity of
Orange County,
NC
Weatherization &
Disaster Resilient
Housing
Weatherization repairs for 11
homes $150,000 $0 20.56
4 Town of
Carrboro
Carrboro Energy
Efficiency
Program
This initiative reduces energy
burdens in Carrboro by
providing residents with
education, home energy
audits, energy-saving kits, and
guided access to rebates and
electrification upgrades
through trained community
leaders, resulting in lower bills
for over 230 households.
$29,145 $29,145 20.31
5 Trees for the
Triangle
Tree Planting and
Education
The project will plant 200
trees, distribute 2,000
seedlings, and offer
workshops on climate-resilient
tree care to expand the native
tree canopy in low-equity,
climate-vulnerable
neighborhoods through a Pay-
What-You-Can planting
program.
$50,000 $30,000 20.10
6 Red Hawk
Farm, LLC
Renewable
Energy
Infrastructure for
the Future of
Farms
52-acre organic farm
supplying high-quality produce
year-round using soil-based
greenhouse production and
technical growing strategies
seeks funds to transition from
fossil-fuel dependence to
renewable energy systems by
replacing single phase with 3-
phase power to enable solar
installation.
$30,000 $30,000 19.74
7
Upstream
Works — on
behalf of
Carolina
Community
Compost
Carolina
Community
Compost
Supplies, services, outreach
materials and labor to expand
a compost program into 7 new
neighborhoods and 1 church
$30,478 $21,300 19.70
8
Weaver
Community
Housing
Association
Energy Efficient
Windows
Installation
Replacement of windows in 7
residential units with energy
efficient models
$61,352 $61,305 18.64
9
Hillsborough
Community
Garden
Solar powered
community
garden irrigation
Solar-powered well on nearby
church property to provide
sustainable, cost-effective
irrigation that remains
functional during drought or
emergencies
$18,000 $0 18.27
10 Solar Equity
Inc.
St. Joseph's CME
Church Solar
Project
Installation of a 23.4kW solar
array on the roof of St.
Joseph’s CME Church,
located in Chapel Hill’s
Northside Neighborhood
$28,000 $28,000 17.83
11 Pee Wee
Homes
Native focused
landscaping for
10 dignified and
affordable tiny
homes
Native, climate-resilient
landscaping for 10 affordable
tiny homes of formerly
homeless residents
$4,000 $0 17.68
12 Town of Chapel
Hill
Extension of E-
Bike Lending
Library Program
Extension of a previously
successful E-bike program for
an additional 8-12 months to
offer E-bike experiences to
more residents and staff.
$25,920 $0 16.58
6Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
Rank Applicant
Name Project Name Project Summary Amount
Requested
Recommended
Funding
Total
Score
(out of
26)
13 Town of
Carrboro
E-Bike Voucher
and Education
Program
Pilot program to provide 20
income-eligible residents with
vouchers for free e-bikes,
reducing transportation
insecurity and emissions.
$33,400 $0 16.09
14 The Arts Center Cellular Blinds for
The Arts Center
Installation of highly efficient
interior cellular shades on
windows to boost the energy
performance of the building
$21,800 $0 15.73
15
Carolina
Advocates for
Climate, Health,
and Equity
Climate-informed
Prenatal Care
Introductory climate health
education sessions for health
professionals to reduce
climate-related pregnancy
risks, with a focus on extreme
heat.
$10,000 $0 15.29
16 Bluestem
Community NC
Rooftop Solar
Installation for
Bluestem
Community NC
Installation of a 9.628 kW
solar array with battery
backup on a new barn
extension to move toward net-
zero energy use
$25,000 $0 14.67
Total $619,095 $267,750
Below is a set of expanded details for each proposed project, in rank order per HRC and CFE scoring. The quoted text
was pulled directly from various sections of the submitted applications. Also summarized below are the comments
from the HRC and the CFE, along with scores and funding recommendations.
#1 Ranked Project – Table Ministries, Inc – Twin Creeks Farm Expansion
Applicant (Collaborators): Wildflower Lane Farm
Funding Requested: $50,000
Recommended Funding Level: $30,000
Total Score (Out of 26 pts): 21.57
Project Description: A partnership with Wildflower Land Farm at Twin Creeks, an undeveloped Orange County Park.
The expansion funding sought will cover labor. TABLE provides weekly nutritious food to 1,125 children and plans to
expand service using organic produce grown through supplies, tools and equipment. The Twin Creeks partnership will
supply produce at a fraction of retail cost, enabling TABLE to feed more children and support local farmers.
Project Benefits: Increasing local sourcing at Twin Creeks will provide children with fresher, healthier produce while
strengthening revenue for small farmers. Reducing food miles from thousands to just five significantly lowers
emissions and environmental impacts. The project also promotes a sustainable, pesticide‐free food system that
improves long‐term health and climate outcomes. The project reduces food miles and waste, improves soil health,
supports pollinators, and reduces runoff—strengthening local climate and air quality.
Reviewer Comments: The CFE strongly supports this project but provided partial funding since the group has access
to other funding sources. HRC scored them #1. There is a high Orange County economic impact (for families who
receive food; all food grown locally) and social justice component.
#2 Ranked Project – Urban Sustainability Solutions – High‐School Students Installing Riparian
Buffers
Applicant (Collaborators): Burt’s Bees, Environmental Protection Agency, North Carolina Department of Environmental
Quality (NC DEQ)
Funding Requested: $52,000
Recommended Funding Level: $38,000
Total Score (Out of 26 pts): 21.35
7Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
Project Description: Urban Sustainability Solutions will train teachers and youth in certified green‐infrastructure
curricula through afterschool and weekend programs. The program will end with planting projects to restore storm‐
damaged riparian buffers, with funds covering training stipends and implementation. Field work will include stream
cleanup, buffer restoration, and planting live tree stakes to stabilize stream banks, especially those damaged by
tropical storm Chantal.
Project Benefits: Restoring low‐lying areas with native vegetation will reduce erosion, stabilize soils, and protect
downstream low‐income communities from future storm impacts. These plantings will improve water quality in Bolin
Creek by filtering pollutants, increasing biodiversity, and boosting carbon sequestration. The project also safeguards
Jordan Lake’s drinking water by preventing sediment and nutrient contamination.
Reviewer Comments:
The CFE supports this request because it has strong educational and community connections. USS has a solid, proven
track record. The HRC appreciated that the community would be involved in this project. The CFE deducted $14,000
that was for the administration of other grants.
#3 Ranked Project – Habitat for Humanity – Weatherization & Disaster Resilient Housing
Applicant (Collaborators): N/A
Funding Requested: $150,000
Recommended Funding Level: $0
Total Score (Out of 26 pts): 20.56
Project Description: Habitat for Humanity of Orange County will expand its Home Repair program to address
increased weatherization needs caused by Tropical Storm Chantal, in 11 older, vulnerable homes.
Project Benefits: Integrating weatherization into essential home repairs will lower utility bills for low‐income
households and reduce approximately 11 metric tons of emissions annually. Improved insulation, HVAC systems, and
windows will enhance indoor air quality, comfort, and resilience to extreme weather. Local contractors and materials
will support the regional economy while extending the lifespan of affordable housing.
Reviewer Comments: The CFE recognizes and values the proposed project and Habitat’s longstanding contributions to the
community. The CFE also noted that Habitat has access to a variety of funding sources and has previously received support
through this program ($300k). Given the limited funds available, the CFE is thoughtfully distributing resources across a range of
organizations, including smaller groups that may particularly benefit at this time. The HRC supports the initiative due to its
positive impact on low‐income residents and noted that additional information regarding how beneficiaries would be identified
or prioritized would be helpful.
#4 Ranked Project – Town of Carrboro – Carrboro Energy Efficiency Program
Applicant (Collaborators): Preserving Home Inc., Hope Renovations
Funding Requested: $29,145
Recommended Funding Level: $29,145
Total Score (Out of 26 pts): 20.31
Project Description: This initiative trains community leaders to assist more than 230 high‐burden households in
cutting energy costs through education, home energy audits, hands‐on projects, and connections to weatherization,
rebates, and efficiency upgrades.
Project Benefits: Energy audits and education will help residents cut utility costs, lower emissions, and make
informed decisions about efficiency upgrades. The program is expected to reduce town‐wide energy use by over
249,000 kWh annually, equivalent to 67.4 metric tons of CO₂e. Households that act on recommendations will benefit
from long‐term energy savings and increased home value.
Reviewer Comments: Carefully thought‐out project with good metrics to measure success. Applicant is well suited to
carry out the project and the costs are relatively modest. Community outreach and partnerships are positive
8Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
features. Education and monitoring are part of lowering energy cost/uses. Simple concept that targets low‐ and
middle‐income residents. Short turnaround time (6 months‐year).
#5 Ranked Project – Trees for the Triangle – Tree Planting and Education
Applicant (Collaborators): Triangle Prescribed Burn Association (Through NC Cooperative
Extension), Bluestem Community NC
Funding Requested: $50,000
Recommended Funding Level: $30,000
Total Score (Out of 25 pts): 20.10
Project Description: Trees for the Triangle will expand the native tree canopy in low‐equity, climate‐vulnerable
neighborhoods through a Pay‐What‐You‐Can planting program. The project will plant 200 trees, distribute 2,000
seedlings, and offer workshops on climate‐resilient tree care. This approach improves flood resilience, reduces
emissions, and empowers residents to build greener, healthier communities.
Project Benefits: Planting 200 native trees and distributing 2,000 seedlings will reduce flooding, sequester carbon,
cool neighborhoods, and improve air quality in vulnerable areas. Workshops will equip residents to care for their
trees, extending benefits across the county. These efforts advance climate equity by expanding green space and
strengthening community resilience for future storm events.
Reviewer Comments: Targeted approach to planting trees in disadvantaged communities and educating residents.
Plan in place to engage and educate tree owners and keep trees alive. Strong partnerships. Deducted funding to
reduce administrative costs.
#6 Ranked Project – Red Hawk Farm – Renewable Energy Infrastructure
Applicant (Collaborators): Piedmont Electric Cooperative
Funding Requested: $30,000
Recommended Funding Level: $30,000
Total Score (Out of 26 pts): 19.74
Project Description: Red Hawk Farm (52‐acre organic farm supplying high‐quality produce year‐round using soil‐
based greenhouse production and technical growing strategies) seeks funds to transition from fossil‐fuel dependence
to renewable energy systems to strengthen resilience and reduce operating costs. This shift will also advance climate‐
conscious farming and help peers adopt similar solutions.
Project Benefits: Bringing three‐phase power to this farm will enable solar and geothermal systems that significantly
reduce greenhouse gas emissions and eliminate major energy costs. Savings can be reinvested in staff wages and
shared as a model for other regional farms seeking climate‐smart operations. The project also strengthens Orange
County’s agricultural sector and expands hands‐on learning opportunities for students and community partners.
Reviewer Comments: The CFE was very impressed by this grant. They applied last year and were turned down but
took advice and recommendations to make this year's grant request very appealing with stronger, more realistic
business/farm application than last year's with increased partnerships/collaborators. The HRC acknowledged
wanting to encourage businesses like this which support our regional county education systems,
#7 Ranked Project – Upstream Works/Carolina Community Compost – Compost Collection in 7
neighborhoods and 1 church
Applicant (Collaborators): Compost Now
Funding Requested: $30,478
Recommended Funding Level: $21,300
Total Score (Out of 26 pts): 19.7
9Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
Project Description: Carolina Community Compost will expand its successful neighborhood‐led composting model to
7 additional Orange County neighborhoods and one church, significantly reducing landfill waste and greenhouse gas
emissions and supplying compost to community gardens in low‐income areas, improving soil health and access to
fresh food. A part‐time Compost Ambassador will support outreach and education for one new 24/7 CompostNow
bin placed near a low‐income neighborhood, helping lay the groundwork for broader countywide composting.
Project Benefits: Expanding to new neighborhoods will divert 77 tons of food waste and cut 52 tons of CO₂e,
annually, and reduce landfill fees for local governments. Participating households also gain climate education,
stronger social connections, and healthier habits. The compost produced will support community gardens, benefiting
more than 700 additional residents with fresh food and improved soil.
Reviewer Comments: Interesting project with qualified organizers that have implemented a highly successful
program with expansion opportunities. This project can easily accommodate partial funding. CFE is interested in
seeing how it works for its potential for broader adoption and impact.
#8 Ranked Project – Weaver Community Housing Association– Energy Efficient Window
Installation
Applicant (Collaborators): Farewell Earth
Funding Requested: $61,352
Recommended Funding Level: $61,305
Total Score (Out of 26 pts): 18.64
Project Description: Weaver Community Housing Association (WCHA), an affordable community housing co‐
operative, seeks funding to replace 55 aging, inefficient, and leaking windows across seven cooperative housing
units. The project benefits 24 residents, including eight children, and will be completed with a long‐time local
contractor.
Project Benefits: Replacing failing, single‐pane windows will reduce energy waste, lower utility bills, and improve
ventilation and indoor air quality for seven low‐income households. The upgrades will prevent mold, moisture
intrusion, and long‐term structural damage. These custom windows protect a unique affordable housing asset while
improving comfort and reducing climate‐related energy burdens.
Reviewer Comments: Fully funded because other organizations who applied for CCAG have access to other funding.
#9 Ranked Project – Hillsborough Community Garden – Solar Powered Community Garden
Irrigation
Applicant (Collaborators): N/A
Funding Requested: $18,000
Recommended Funding Level: $0
Total Score (Out of 26 pts): 18.27
Project Description: The Hillsborough Community Garden needs a reliable water supply independent of the town
system to remain functional during drought or emergencies. A proposed solar‐powered well on nearby church
property would provide sustainable, cost‐effective irrigation. This solution also models environmentally friendly
practices for other community gardens.
Project Benefits: All the produce grown by the Hillsborough Community Garden (HCG) for the past three years has
gone to food insecure families via PORCH Hillsborough, providing needed fresh vegetables to over 1000 people. At
our previous location in 2024 we grew and distributed more than 1500 pounds of fresh produce.
Reviewer Comments: CFE members support the idea of community gardens that feed others in need but were not
convinced a well would be needed in downtown Hillsborough. CFE also felt the GHG estimates might be too high.
The HRC mentioned that they would like to see communication with the communities supported by PORCH.
10Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
#10 Ranked Project – SolarEquity – St. Joseph’s CME Church Solar Project
Applicant (Collaborators): Saint Joseph's Christian Methodist Episcopal Church
Funding Requested: $28,000
Recommended Funding Level: $28,000
Total Score (Out of 26 pts): 17.83
Project Description: SolarEquity proposes installing a 23.4 kW solar array on St. Joseph’s CME Church to reduce utility
costs for a historically Black, low‐income community. The system will save the church over $1,200 annually and offset
about 150 metric tons of carbon emissions over 25 years.
Project Benefits: The solar array will cut nearly 6 metric tons of CO₂ annually and save the church over $1,200 per
year in utility costs, easing financial burdens on a historically low‐income congregation. Over its lifespan, the system
will offset nearly 150 metric tons of emissions and strengthen energy resilience. As a visible community institution,
the church’s adoption of solar will also inspire broader climate action within the Northside community.
Reviewer Comments: The CFE supports this grant request so that St. Joseph's can complete their original request
from 2024 to install solar panels after a roof repair. Once the panels are in place, St. Joseph's community (and
Northside in general) would have a place to go for shelter, cooling, etc. during extreme events and power losses. The
HRC noted the project’s value in supporting long‐time residents in an historically underserved community while offering
opportunities for cost savings and future community benefit.
#11 Ranked Project – Pee Wee– Native Focused Landscaping for 10 Tiny Homes
Applicant (Collaborators): N/A
Funding Requested: $4,000
Recommended Funding Level: $0
Total Score (Out of 26 pts): 17.68
Project Description: This project will add native, climate‐resilient landscaping to 10 affordable tiny homes for
formerly homeless residents. The plantings will reduce runoff, support biodiversity, and lower emissions from
mowing while beautifying shared spaces. With community input and local expertise, the initiative supports county
climate goals and long‐term stewardship.
Project Benefits: Native landscaping at 10 tiny homes will reduce mowing‐related emissions, improve stormwater
absorption, and support pollinators and local biodiversity. The project engages residents directly in planning and
stewardship, building climate awareness and community pride. These improvements also reduce flooding risks and
strengthen ecosystem resilience in underserved neighborhoods.
Reviewer Comments: The CFE loved the idea of the native plant gardens but felt the cost per person was high. The
HRC appreciated that the project targeted low‐income recipients with environment impact.
#12 Ranked Project – Town of Chapel Hill – Extension of E‐bike Lending Library Program
Applicant (Collaborators): The Bicycle Chain, East Coast Electric Speed Shop, and Trek
Funding Requested: $25,920
Recommended Funding Level: $0
Total Score (Out of 26 pts): 16.58
Project Description: The Town of Chapel Hill launched a free e‐bike lending program in April with enough federal
funding to cover a 1‐year pilot. We currently offer 18 E‐bikes for public use at two local bike shops and 23 E‐bikes for
staff at more than 7 Town facilities. This program has been very successful and we are seeking support to extend this
program another 8‐12 months to offer E‐bike experiences to more residents and staff.
11Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
Project Benefits: The E‐bike lending library gives residents free, short‐term access to e‐bikes, reducing car trips,
emissions, and transportation costs. Exposure to multiple bike types helps users discover accessible, healthier travel
options. The program also supports local bike shops and increases community adoption of low‐emission mobility.
Reviewer Comments: GHG reduction is based on total project lifetime, but the funding request is only for an
additional year of operations. The CFE was concerned about the sustainability of the e‐bike program long‐term and
what would happen if the project ended due to lack of funding. Most of the reduction in gasoline is tied to people
purchasing their own e‐bikes and assumptions (e.g., number of e‐bikes purchased) are not substantiated with data.
The HRC commented that having targeted communities that are low‐income or partnership ideas to target minority
populations could be considered.
#13 Ranked Project – Town of Carrboro – E‐bike Voucher and Education Program
Applicant (Collaborators): Back Alley Bikes, Shift Chapel Hill‐Carrboro
Funding Requested: $33,400
Recommended Funding Level: $0
Total Score (Out of 26 pts): 16.09
Project Description: This pilot will provide 20 income‐eligible residents with vouchers for free e‐bikes, reducing
transportation insecurity and emissions. Modeled on successful programs in Raleigh and Durham, the initiative will
include safety gear, outreach, and workshops.
Project Benefits: Providing e‐bike vouchers to low‐income residents will replace car trips, reducing over 100 metric
tons of CO₂ and improving air quality. The program expands mobility for people who cannot afford cars or electric
vehicles, improving access to work, healthcare, and daily needs. Supporting local bike shops keeps economic benefits
within Carrboro.
Reviewer Comments: The CFE and HRC scores were closely aligned and suggested a comparatively lower return relative to
other proposals. Reviewers noted that the cost per recipient is relatively high and would be most impactful if the program
encouraged broader e‐bike adoption. The HRC also emphasized the importance of meaningful community engagement and
raised questions about the extent to which the program would reach communities of color or advance social justice and racial
equity goals.
#14 Ranked Project – The ArtsCenter – Cellular Blinds
Applicant (Collaborators): N/A
Funding Requested: $21,800
Recommended Funding Level: $0
Total Score (Out of 26 pts): 15.73
Project Description: The ArtsCenter plans to install high‐efficiency cellular shades to improve building energy
performance. Installation will be done by a long‐standing local, veteran‐owned business.
Project Benefits: Installing high‐efficiency cellular shades will reduce heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer,
lowering energy use throughout the building. Oak Ridge National Laboratory found that cellular shades outperform
vinyl blinds, delivering up to 20% heating energy savings and up to 15% total heating‐and‐cooling energy savings
compared to homes without shades.
Reviewer Comments: The CFE did not feel this was a high priority project, given limited funding and the quality of
other applications. The HRC rank was low and GHG reductions were minimal. The Arts Center has been a grant
recipient in the past and the CFE wanted to give others an opportunity.
12Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
#15 Ranked Project – Carolina Advocates for Climate, Health and Equity – Climate Informed
Prenatal Care
Applicant (Collaborators): UNC Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Maternal Fetal Medicine Division, Orange County
Health Department (OCHD)
Funding Requested: $10,000
Recommended Funding Level: $0
Total Score (Out of 26 pts): 15.29
Project Description: This project will deliver climate‐health training to maternity care providers, focusing on reducing
pregnancy risks from extreme heat. It will develop evidence‐based materials, co‐design content with clinicians and
patients, and provide a one‐hour educational webinar.
Project Benefits: Training maternity‐care providers in climate‐related health risks will improve prenatal counseling
and help pregnant patients protect themselves during extreme heat events. The program will enhance provider
capacity and support Orange County’s heat‐action goals. Long‐term benefits include reduced pregnancy
complications, improved maternal health equity, and greater climate preparedness across the healthcare system.
Reviewer Comments: The CFE loves this project idea but it does not align with the goal of GHG reductions for the
CCAG. This heat mitigation project aligns nicely with the Heat Action Plan that is in development. The HRC
appreciated that from a social justice side, this is an innovative idea to support low income families early on in life,
addressing health disparities stratified by income & race.
#16 Ranked Project – Bluestem Community NC– Rooftop Solar Installation
Applicant (Collaborators): N/A
Funding Requested: $25,000
Recommended Funding Level: $0
Total Score (Out of 26 pts): 14.67
Project Description: Bluestem Community plans to install a 9.628 kW solar array with battery backup on a new barn
extension to move toward net‐zero energy use. The project aligns with the organization’s conservation‐focused
mission and supports its community and ecological programming. The south‐facing roof will host 16 solar panels to
meet current and future energy needs.
Project Benefits: Installing on‐site solar with battery storage will move Bluestem toward net‐zero operations and
eliminate dependence on fossil‐fuel‐generated electricity. The system will reduce emissions from equipment and
vehicle charging while lowering long‐term utility costs. Savings can be reinvested in community programming,
accessibility improvements, and environmental stewardship.
Reviewer Comments: This project doesn't seem to meet the objective of working towards racial equity or working
for the broader community within Orange County.
Appendix: Full Scoring Table:
Final
Rank Applicant Name Project Name Amount
Requested
1. Average
Social
Justice and
Racial Equity
(0-6 pts)
2. Average
Emissions
Reduced
(0-4 pts)
3. Average
Efficient
Use of
Funds
(0-4 pts)
4. Average
Capacity
of
Applicant
(0-3 pts)
5. Average
Local
Economic
Development
(0-3 pts)
6. Average
Amount and
Duration of
Engagement
(0-3 pts)
7. Average
Time to
Complete
(0-3 pts)
Total
Average
Score
1
Table
Ministries,
Inc.
Twin Creeks
Farm
Expansion $50,000 5.67 2.80 2.70 2.70 2.50 2.60 2.60 21.57
2
Urban
Sustainability
Solutions,
Inc.
High-School
Students
Installing
Riparian
Buffers
$52,000 4.17 3.36 3.36 2.73 2.27 2.73 2.73 21.35
13Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
Final
Rank Applicant Name Project Name Amount
Requested
1. Average
Social
Justice and
Racial Equity
(0-6 pts)
2. Average
Emissions
Reduced
(0-4 pts)
3. Average
Efficient
Use of
Funds
(0-4 pts)
4. Average
Capacity
of
Applicant
(0-3 pts)
5. Average
Local
Economic
Development
(0-3 pts)
6. Average
Amount and
Duration of
Engagement
(0-3 pts)
7. Average
Time to
Complete
(0-3 pts)
Total
Average
Score
3
Habitat for
Humanity of
Orange
County, NC
Weatherizati
on &
Disaster
Resilient
Housing $150,000 4.83 2.45 2.18 3.00 2.64 2.55 2.91 20.56
4 Town of
Carrboro
Carrboro
Energy
Efficiency
Program
$29,145 3.86 2.64 3.09 2.73 2.55 2.64 2.82 20.31
5
Trees for the
Triangle
Tree
Planting and
Education $50,000 3.29 3.27 3.18 3.00 2.00 2.64 2.73 20.10
6 Red Hawk
Farm, LLC
Renewable
Energy
Infrastructure
for the Future
of Farms
$30,000 2.83 3.64 3.73 2.73 1.82 2.45 2.55 19.74
7
Upstream
Works — on
behalf of
Carolina
Community
Compost
Carolina
Community
Compost
$30,478 4.33 2.73 2.82 2.82 1.82 2.45 2.73 19.70
8
Weaver
Community
Housing
Association
Energy
Efficient
Windows
Installation
$61,352 4.00 2.27 2.64 2.91 1.82 2.09 2.91 18.64
9
Hillsborough
Community
Garden
Solar
powered
community
garden
irrigation
$18,000 4.17 2.30 3.00 2.10 2.10 2.00 2.60 18.27
10 SolarEquity
Inc.
St. Joseph's
CME Church
Solar Project $28,000 4.29 2.36 2.45 2.55 1.45 2.27 2.45 17.83
11
Pee Wee
Homes
Native
focused
landscaping
for 10
dignified and
affordable
tiny homes $4,000 4.86 1.18 2.00 2.73 2.27 2.00 2.64 17.68
12 Town of
Chapel Hill
Extension of
E-Bike
Lending
Library
Program
$25,920 2.67 2.45 2.45 2.55 1.73 2.00 2.73 16.58
13 Town of
Carrboro
E-Bike
Voucher and
Education
Program $33,400 3.00 2.09 1.64 2.82 1.91 1.82 2.82 16.09
14 The Arts
Center
Cellular
Blinds for
The
ArtsCenter
$21,800 2.00 1.55 2.00 2.82 2.45 2.09 2.82 15.73
15
Carolina
Advocates
for Climate,
Health, and
Equity
Climate-
informed
Prenatal
Care $10,000 3.29 0.45 2.27 2.73 1.64 2.27 2.64 15.29
16
Bluestem
Community
NC
Rooftop
Solar
Installation
for Bluestem
Community
NC
$25,000 1.67 2.09 2.36 2.18 1.45 2.36 2.55 14.67
14Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
Attachment 2 - Community Climate Action Grant Project Status Fiscal Year Project Organization Award Amount Estimated Annual GHG Reduction metric tons CO2e Project Status 19‐20 Solar for Schools (a) Orange County Schools$150,00025In progress19‐20 Solar for Schools (b) Chapel Hill Carrboro City Schools$150,000194In progress19‐20 Supplemental Weatherization Orange County$150,00022 In progress19‐20 LED Light Campaign Orange County$19,2724COMPLETED20‐21 Tree Planting Program Town of Chapel Hill$40,000 880 (pounds)COMPLETED20‐21 Electric Vehicle Charging Station Town of Chapel Hill$18,500 6COMPLETED20‐21 Cedar Falls Park LED Light Conversion Town of Chapel Hill$128,057 9 COMPLETED20‐21 Cane Creek Reservoir 352.4 kW Solar OWASA$75,000 110COMPLETED20‐21 Water heater replacements NAACP$122,100 26 COMPLETED20‐21 Solar Panels on Affordable Habitat Homes Habitat for Humanity of Orange County $95,000 16 COMPLETED21‐22 Low Income HVAC Replacement Rebuilding Together of the Triangle$113,00034 COMPLETED21‐22 Neighborhood Energy Resiliency ProjectNC Sustainable Energy Association$90,00010 COMPLETED21‐22 Food Waste Monitor Eno River Farmer’s Market$4,00019COMPLETED21‐22 Food Waste Monitor Town of Carrboro$3,76519COMPLETED21‐22 Bike Rack and EV Charging Station The ArtsCenter$17,0006COMPLETED21‐22 203 Project Solar Array and Green RoofTown of Carrboro$40,567See FY 22‐23COMPLETED21‐22 Solar for Schools (b) Chapel Hill Carrboro City Schools$250,00See FY 19‐20In progress22‐23 Habitat Rooftop Solar Habitat for Humanity$100,000 22COMPLETED22‐23 Weatherization Rebuilding Together of the Triangle $25,0005COMPLETED22‐23 Food Waste Monitors Eno River Farmers’ Market$4,500 19COMPLETED22‐23 203 Solar Project Town of Carrboro$40,575 21COMPLETED22‐23 Fleet Electrification Project Town of Chapel Hill$50,000 33 In progress22‐23 Solar Roof The ArtsCenter$55,000 27COMPLETED22‐23 Emission Reductions Through HVAC Replacements Chapel Hill Carrboro City Schools $275,075 147 In progress23‐24 Supplemental weatherization to home repair projects Habitat for Humanity$55,0007COMPLETED23‐24 Green infrastructure and apprenticeship program for Orange County Schools Urban Sustainability Solutions$69,1565COMPLETED23‐24 Rooftop solar Hillsborough United Church of Christ $10,0007COMPLETED23‐24 Rooftop solar Binkley Baptist Church$49,0365COMPLETED23‐24 Rooftop solar on Peach Apartments EMPOWERment$61,62312In progress15Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
Attachment 2 - Community Climate Action Grant Project Status (a) Installing two 54 panel bi‐facial solar pedestals and fast charger to power electric school buses (b) Northside Elementary School solar installation project is complete; working on leveraging direct pay funding to be able to complete a solar installation project on Morris Grove Elementary now. Fiscal Year Project Organization Award Amount Estimated Annual GHG Reduction metric tons CO2e Project Status 23‐24 Installation of gardens, terrace and greenhouse, plant‐based diets Club Nova$37,2275COMPLETED23‐24 LED light campus changeover CHCCCS$94,01424COMPLETED23‐24 54‐panel solar panel pedestal with battery storage and EV charging station (a) Orange County Schools$188,02936In progress24‐25 Shade For Schools Trees for the Triangle$50,000 172In progress24‐25 Rooftop Solar on Habitat Homes Habitat for Humanity$50,00022COMPLETE24‐25 Peach Apartments Solar Project Empowerment$19,800 11In progress24‐25 Nature Based Solutions at the Confluence Natural Area Eno River Association $22,600 23 In progress24‐25 St. Joseph's CME Church Solar Project Solar Equity $50,0006 In progress24‐25 Orange County Green Infrastructure Workforce Development Program Urban Sustainability Solutions $58,100 9 COMPLETE24‐25 Food Forest Jubilee Healing Farm$12,000 14In progress16Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
Community Climate Action Grant (CCAG)Project Selection FY25-26January 20, 202617Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
CCAG BackgroundCommunity Climate Action Grant:•Established in FY 2019–20to support community led climate action •In its sixth year, with increasing impact, demand, and community engagement•Complements and advances Orange County’s Climate Action Planby funding projects that reduce emissions, build resilience, and deliver community co-benefits•Board-approved scoring and eligibility guidelines•Projects prioritized for social justice and racial equity benefits18Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
CCAG Eligibility Guidelines•Non-profits, public entities, and small businesses• All funds spent in Orange County•Must have legal standing to receive funds•Ongoing projects eligible if expanding or accelerating•Replacement and repair projects are eligible if not likely to be funded within 5 years19Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
CCAG Scoring Criteria• 26-point scale•Social Justice and Racial Equity (6pts) •GHG emissions reduced (4 pts)•Efficient use of Funds (4 pts)•Capacity of Applicant (3 pts)•Local Economic Development (3 pts)•Amount and Duration of Engagement (3 pts)•Time to complete (3 pts)*All applications are reviewed and scored by the Commission for the Environment and the Human Relations Commission 20Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
New This Year•Community Outreach–Signage– Promoted at Ag Summit– Targeted email list–Various media•New Grant Portal Launched–16 applications!•Diverse and Innovative Projects–solar, nature-based, energy efficiency, micro-mobility• $619,095 in grant funding requested ($267,750 available)21Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
Advisory Board Recommendations:• 8 projects recommended for full/partial funding• Partial funding was applied when projects:• Were designed to be scalable• Could leverage other funding sources• Applicants indicated they could successfully proceed with partial funding22Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
Rank Applicant Name Project Name Amount Requested Recommended Funding Total Score (out of 26) 1 Table Ministries, Inc. Twin Creeks Farm Expansion $50,000 $30,000 21.57 2 Urban Sustainability Solutions, Inc. High-School Students Installing Riparian Buffers $52,000 $38,000 21.35 3 Habitat for Humanity of Orange County, NC Weatherization & Disaster Resilient Housing $150,000 $0 20.56 4 Town of Carrboro Carrboro Energy Efficiency Program $29,145 $29,145 20.31 5 Trees for the Triangle Tree Planting and Education $50,000 $30,000 20.10 6 Red Hawk Farm, LLC Renewable Energy Infrastructure for the Future of Farms $30,000 $30,000 19.74 7 Upstream Works — on behalf of Carolina Community Compost Carolina Community Compost $30,478 $21,300 19.70 8 Weaver Community Housing Association Energy Efficient Windows Installation $61,352 $61,305 18.64 9 Hillsborough Community Garden Solar powered community garden irrigation $18,000 $0 18.27 10 Solar Equity Inc. St. Joseph's CME Church Solar Project $28,000 $28,000 17.83 11 Pee Wee Homes Native focused landscaping for 10 dignified and affordable tiny homes $4,000 $0 17.68 12 Town of Chapel Hill Extension of E-Bike Lending Library Program $25,920 $0 16.58 13 Town of Carrboro E-Bike Voucher and Education Program $33,400 $0 16.09 14 The Arts Center Cellular Blinds for The Arts Center $21,800 $0 15.73 15 Carolina Advocates for Climate, Health, and Equity Climate-informed Prenatal Care $10,000 $0 15.29 16 Bluestem Community NC Rooftop Solar Installation for Bluestem Community NC $25,000 $0 14.67 Total Total Amount Requested $619,095 Total Amount Recommended $267,750 Rank Applicant Name Project Name Amount Requested Recommended Funding Total Score (out of 26) 1 Table Ministries, Inc. Twin Creeks Farm Expansion $50,000 $30,000 21.57 2 Urban Sustainability Solutions, Inc. High-School Students Installing Riparian Buffers $52,000 $38,000 21.35 3 Habitat for Humanity of Orange County, NC Weatherization & Disaster Resilient Housing $150,000 $0 20.56 4 Town of Carrboro Carrboro Energy Efficiency Program $29,145 $29,145 20.31 5 Trees for the Triangle Tree Planting and Education $50,000 $30,000 20.10 6 Red Hawk Farm, LLC Renewable Energy Infrastructure for the Future of Farms $30,000 $30,000 19.74 7 Upstream Works on behalf of Carolina Community Compost Carolina Community Compost $30,478 $21,300 19.70 8 Weaver Community Housing Association Energy Efficient Windows Installation $61,352 $61,305 18.64 9 Hillsborough Community Garden Solar powered community garden irrigation $18,000 $0 18.27 10 Solar Equity Inc. St. Joseph's CME Church Solar Project $28,000 $28,000 17.83 11 Pee Wee Homes Native focused landscaping for 10 dignified and affordable tiny homes $4,000 $0 17.68 12 Town of Chapel Hill Extension of E-Bike Lending Library Program $25,920 $0 16.58 13 Town of Carrboro E-Bike Voucher and Education Program $33,400 $0 16.09 14 The Arts Center Cellular Blinds for The Arts Center $21,800 $0 15.73 15 Carolina Advocates for Climate, Health, and Equity Climate-informed Prenatal Care $10,000 $0 15.29 16 Bluestem Community NC Rooftop Solar Installation for Bluestem Community NC $25,000 $0 14.67 Total Total Amount Requested is $619,095Total Amount Recommended is $267,750 23Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
2025 Project HighlightsDrakeford LibraryRooftop solar & educational signageExpanding renewable energy while creating learning opportunitiesUrban Sustainability SolutionsGreen infrastructure & workforce developmentPartnering with schools to manage stormwater and build career pathwaysTrees for the TriangleTree planting in schoolsIncreasing tree canopy and engaging students Binkley Baptist ChurchRooftop solarAdvancing clean energy through on-site renewable generation24Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963
Docusign Envelope ID: 607995AB-FD72-4B81-91C2-2C0A73A91963