ILLINOIS – State Representative Jennifer Sanalitro (R-Hanover Park) is highlighting a new grant opportunity from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (Illinois EPA) aimed at supporting safe and responsible disposal of household medical sharps, such as needles, syringes, and lancets.
The Residential Sharps Collection Program offers funding to units of local government that operate designated sharps collection stations. Through this initiative, local governments can receive up to $35,000 to help cover the costs associated with collecting, storing, and disposing of used sharps.
“Programs like this are essential to keeping our communities safe and protecting the environment,” said Rep. Sanalitro. “By helping local governments manage medical waste properly, we reduce the risks to sanitation workers, first responders, and families across Illinois.”
Eligible expenses under the grant include:
- Advertising for sharps collection stations
- Educational materials for residents
- Individual and onsite sharps collection containers
- Mobilization fees for waste transporters
- Disposal costs for collected sharps
Applications will be accepted until funding is exhausted or through March 31, 2026. However, all applicants must be pre-qualified through the state’s Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA) Grantee Portal before applying.
Full details and application materials are available at the Illinois EPA’s website:
https://epa.illinois.gov/topics/waste-management/waste-disposal/medication-disposal/sharps/residential-sharps-collection-program.html