A North Kansas City grant program offers up to $400 for residents to throw neighborhood block parties.

North Kansas City is launching a Block Party Grant to encourage residents to throw neighborhood block parties, reports Alecia Taylor in The Kansas City Star.
The program offers up to $400 to cover the cost of party supplies. “Once an application has been approved by the city, residents can be reimbursed for expenses like food, paper goods and entertainment.”
The city’s mayor, Jesse Smith, says he wants to encourage people to meet their neighbors. “Smith and the city are hoping these block parties will make it easier for residents to get to know each other and engage more with the broader North Kansas City community.” The mayor also encourages first responders to attend the events to create connections with their communities.
FULL STORY: This KC-area city wants to pay you to party with your neighbors. Here’s how, why

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