YMCA, St. Edward’s seek EPA funding for climate resilience hub

The Greater Austin YMCA and St. Edward’s University have teamed up to apply for a $20 million Community Change Grant from the Environmental Protection Agency. If awarded, the grant will fund the construction of a climate resilience hub at the East Communities YMCA, located at 5315 Ed Bluestein Blvd., as well as community outreach and education programs. St. Edward’s will lead the project’s community engagement efforts, contributing expertise in programming and research. The proposed 30,000-square-foot facility will include spaces for emergency shelter, education and community events, with energy-efficient infrastructure powered by a microgrid system. The initiative, supported by local leaders such as U.S. Rep. Greg Casar and Austin City Council Member Natasha Harper-Madison, aligns with the city’s broader goals to create a network of resilience hubs in the Eastern Crescent. In the first three months of the grant cycle, the YMCA and St. Edward’s will conduct feasibility studies, energy audits and community engagement to develop a Community Resiliency Action Plan. The partnership will launch sustainability education and social programs focused on energy efficiency, waste reduction, water conservation and biodiversity, alongside initiatives for disaster preparedness, health, education and social equity.