Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Cephas releases statement on DOGE cuts to West Philly nonprofit

Cephas releases statement on DOGE cuts to West Philly nonprofit

Overbrook Environmental Education Center losing $700K in federal funding

Philadelphia House Delegation    March 13, 2025 | 3:39 PM

PHILADELPHIA, March 13 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas, D-Phila., issued the following statement on the recent cancellation of federal funding for the nonprofit Overbrook Environmental Education Center by the Department of Government Efficiency.

“The loss of this funding is another heartless stab at our communities from the Trump administration. This multi-year grant was key to helping our hyperlocal groups – those groups that are closest to the ground and aware of neighborhood needs – remain active and solvent in uplifting environmental justice areas in West Philadelphia. The Biden administration made a commitment to improving historically disadvantaged communities by ensuring this funding would go to organizations dedicated to creating community gardens, reducing blight and litter, and other projects to foster green neighborhoods, making them healthier and more enjoyable. It’s another reckless and cold step by DOGE levelled at our most vulnerable communities who need help urgently.”

The funding was a multi-year grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The Overbrook Environmental Education Center was told that their funding was deactivated at the end of February by the Department of Government Efficiency.

The 192nd Legislative District comprises communities in West Philadelphia which are north and west of Market Street including Overbrook, Overbrook Park, Wynnefield, Carroll Park and more.