PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Providence is expanding its efforts to reduce food waste by giving programs across the city a financial boost. Providence Mayor Brett Smiley and other city leaders announced that the city received a $255,850 grant from the United States Department of Agriculture. MORE: North Providence will be first RI district to compost food waste at all schools Of that funding, $73,550 will go to the Rhode Island School Recycling Project "to expand food waste diversion efforts at Providence Public Schools." Students will be able to actively take part in the waste sorting and redistribution of surplus food. The city said $54,200 be put toward Providence Gardenworks to give community members compost bins, supplies and mentorship. Groundworks RI is also getting $27,715 to grow Providence's food waste drop-off network. Zero Waste Providence is being awarded $84,540 to educate the community on the benefits of composting and waste reduction, according to the city. ALSO READ: Nonprofit rescues leftovers to fight food insecurity The Center for EcoTechnology will be using the $24,760 it is receiving to work with large food waste producers to "develop waste diversion strategies." “Providence is committed to taking meaningful steps to reduce our environmental impact and foster a healthier, more resilient community,” Smiley said. “These grant-funded programs help us reduce food waste, expand access to composting in every neighborhood and ensure that our neighbors, local businesses and schools are engaged in the fight against climate change." Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup SIGN UP NOW