Motion calls for accessible funding to support local ecological stewardship across Vancouver neighbourhoods

VANCOUVER, B.C. MAY 1, 2026 — Green City Councillor Pete Fry has introduced a motion to create a new Community Environmental Stewardship Grant program to support local and grassroot groups caring for Vancouver’s eco-corridors and neighbourhood greenspaces.

Across the city, community volunteers play a vital role in environmental stewardship, restoring habitat, protecting waterways, and maintaining local green spaces, often with limited resources.

“A lot of the work that keeps our green spaces healthy is happening at the community level,” said Fry. “These environmental stewards are doing important work, meeting clear city goals, and they need the tools and support to keep going.”

If approved, the motion directs City staff to:

• Create a dedicated stewardship grant stream for eco-corridors and greenspaces
• Provide flexible, small-scale funding for grassroots and volunteer-led groups
• Support activities like habitat restoration, education, and community science
• Ensure the program is simple, accessible, and equity-focused

The proposal responds to gaps created by changes to existing grant programs, which have made it harder for smaller, community-led stewardship initiatives to access funding.

It also aligns with the City’s official development plan, including land use, climate, and ecological goals by supporting low-cost, high-impact local action.

“This is a practical way to support the people already doing the work,” Fry added. “It strengthens communities and helps us care for the ecosystems we all depend on.”