Created in 2016, the USD46.4 million programme is the largest voluntary effort of its kind by any seaport in the nation designed to ameliorate the environmental impacts of goods movement. Combined with USD17.8 million given during a previous programme, the Port of Long Beach has committed USD65 million to improve the health of children, seniors and other vulnerable populations who live near the harbour.“With these grants, the Port is able to improve parks and recreational facilities that benefit areas around Long Beach that are closest to the cargo-movement routes,” said Harbour Commission President Bonnie Lowenthal. “This programme and our environmental initiatives are just part of our effort to be a good neighbour.”The Port Community Grants Program was created to distribute funding to organisations that serve populations most sensitive to Port-related impacts, maximising the impact on children, senior citizens, the chronically ill, and those with asthma. It identifies three focus areas: Community Health, Facility Improvements and Community Infrastructure. This round of awards arises from a Community Infrastructure solicitation earlier this year.A five-member advisory committee works with Port staff to identify funding opportunities. The committee is chaired by former Long Beach City Councilman Gary DeLong; other members are educator Sabrina Sanders, former Long Beach City College Trustee Irma Archuleta, community organiser Kathleen Irvine, and political consultant Joanne Davis.Earlier this year, the Port granted USD1.3 million to 16 projects in Long Beach and Paramount to improve air quality and energy efficiency at schools and community facilities. Each year, more than 190,000 visitors will benefit from the grants.