
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: THURSDAY, November 10, 1994                   TAG: 9412300013
SECTION: NEIGHBORS                    PAGE: N-6   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: MARY JO SHANNON
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Short

NEIGHBORHOOD GETS LAWN-CARE GRANT

When the grass begins to grow next spring, the Loudon-Melrose Neighborhood Organization will be prepared.

The neighborhood group recently purchased lawn-care equipment with a $1,200 grant from the city of Roanoke. The organization raised $300 in donations to qualify for the grant, said Georgia Croson, who shares responsibility for the project with the Rev. Gregory Jackson, project coordinator.

When members of the Northwest group applied for the grant in June, they were concerned that many of their senior neighbors were not able to mow their yards or pay someone to do it. The group also was concerned about vacant lots that were becoming eyesores.

The money was received too late for mowing this season - but in time to get a head start on next summer. Lawn mowers and line weed trimmers have been purchased. A list of those qualifying for the free service is being compiled as the project's immediate goal. An intermediate goal is working on the vacant lots. Volunteers later may mow lawns for those who make donations to the organization.

Already several volunteers have been enlisted - some almost old enough to qualify themselves. Lindsey Martin, 65, who retired five years ago as a ticket agent for Greyhound Bus Lines, has offered his services for the lawn-mowing project, in addition to serving as financial secretary for the neighborhood group.

Elders and deacons from Melrose Avenue Seventh-day Adventist Church, where Jackson is pastor, also have volunteered to participate in the project.

by CNB