PNC Bank Awards Grant to TGNCDC, In Partnership With Covenant House, To Continue Clean Up Efforts In South Tower Grove South

They say, "One man's trash is another man's treasure."  This isn't necessarily the case in South Tower Grove South (South of McDonald Ave) where trash is drifts from cars and homes, local fast food restaurants and other businesses onto the commercial and residential streets in this rapidly improving area. Through the Tower Grove Neighborhoods Community Development Corporation (TGNCDC) Framework and Vision plan (www.towergrovecdc.org), we identified South Tower Grove South as an area in need of investment and improvement.  TGNCDC has already developed over $1,200,000 in the area, primarily south of Gravois.  We've created over 24 newly updated and naturally affordable apartments that rent for $450 per month.  In addition, TGNCDC has built/sold 2 subsidized new construction homes to bring new homeowners and stakeholders to the streets.  We also supported the installation of trash cans and LED lights with Alderwoman Green.  And TGNCDC has donated the use of one apartment as a police substation in the 3600 Bamberger building (http://www.ksdk.com/news/local/police-substation-moves-into-drug-house-1/69963300).  The PNC Bank Clean Up Grant to TGNCDC, in partnership with Covenant House (https://www.covenanthouse.org), will continue our mission to bring public and private investment to the area.  Beautification efforts also help create pride in the area by current residents/business owners.  And the grant will present opportunities for area youth, who are bordering of homelessness, to work and build a resume for future employment. Employment interview training is also part of the Covenant House program.

TGNCDC is fortunate to work in neighborhoods with passionate residents/business owners, attractive housing/building stock and in close proximity to transportation, jobs and shopping.  These factors, along with a clean and inviting appearance, will enhance the our ability to market the area for investment and continue to improve the quality of life.  The grant is a win-win for the neighborhood and we'll look forward to starting the year long activity in October/November of 2016.