RainSmart Program

The Village Preservation and Improvement Society (VPIS)  “RainSmart” program offers grants for the design and installation of rain gardens and conservation landscapes and to reduce the cost of rain barrels for residents of the City of Falls Church. These grants are available through a partnership with the City of Falls Church.

Grants for Rain Gardens

Why Rain Gardens? Rain gardens and conservation landscapes help manage stormwater, protect local streams and the Chesapeake Bay, reduce local flooding, and support watering of landscapes during dry periods.

How Much Grant Funding is Available? Grants are available to pay 50% of the cost of designing and installing a rain garden or a conservation landscape but will not exceed $1,500 per project. There is a limit of one grant per applicant over a five year period. VPIS reserves the right to limit grant awards to the amount of funds available.

How Do I Apply? Complete the application form and email it to VPIS at Rainsmartfallschurch@gmail.com or mail it to VPIS at PO Box 6824, Falls Church, Va. 22040. VPIS will review and approve applications and send you an email approving funding for the project. You must be a resident of the City of Falls Church.

If you have questions about the RainSmart Program, send an email to Rainsmartfallschurch@gmail.com.

Grants for Rain Barrels

Why Rain Barrels?  Rain barrels help protect streams and the Chesapeake Bay, reduce local flooding, and support watering of landscapes during dry periods.

 How Do I Apply for a Grant?  If you would like a grant to cover $50 of the cost of purchasing and installing up to two rain barrels, complete the application, and either email it to Rainsmartfallschurch@gmail.com or mail it to VPIS/RainSmart Program at PO Box 6824 Falls Church, Va. 22040.

VPIS will review applications and send you an email telling you that you are approved for a grant.  You must be a resident of the City of Falls Church; limit two barrels per household per five year period.  VPIS reserves the right to limit grants to funds available.

 How Do I Install a Rain Barrel?  You can find information on how to install your rain barrel on the Rain Barrel website of the Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District (https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/soil-water-conservation/rain-barrel).  You can also contact a local handyman listed on the website for help in installing a rain barrel.

 How Do I Get My Rain Barrel Grant?  Once you have installed your rain barrel, take a picture of the barrel and email it and the application to Rainsmartfallschurch@gmail.com.  VPIS will mail you a check for $50 per approved rain barrel.