Arts and culture projects by individuals, organizations and community groups are eligible for funds from a new city of Kent program.

Applications are open for Give Me Culture grants from the city of Kent Arts Commission. The grants will fund projects that serve the public in Kent.

“The City Council saw this as a very small, yet impactful step towards our goal of better including and reflecting the diverse cultures, groups and individuals that make up the Kent community,” said Ronda Billerbeck, city cultural programs manager. “We are especially interested in supporting projects that serve and showcase ethnically diverse or underserved communities.”

The council agreed to provide $5,000 to the Give Me Culture program out of the 2012 general fund, Billerbeck said. Funding amounts are available up to a maximum of $1,000 per project.

There is no deadline for the program. Applications will be reviewed as they are received throughout the year. For more information or to apply, visit www.kentarts.com, call 253-856-5050, or email rbillerbeck@kentwa.gov.