A Richland-based nonprofit focused on promoting and protecting the contributions of farmworkers is among nine organizations across the state to share in $1.1 million in workplace safety grants. 

Semillero de Ideas along with its fellow grantees will use the funds to support workers affected by extreme heat and cold, wildfire smoke, drought, flooding and other climate impacts, according to a release. The state’s Climate Commitment Act funds, which are generated by carbon credits bought by industry to cover their emissions, are the source of the grants. 

“We continue to build trust, mutual respect and lasting relationships when we prioritize the people, voices, and experiences from communities,” said Lauren Jenks, environmental public health assistant secretary for the state Department of Health. “And we do this while addressing immediate environmental and health impacts.” 

Semillero de Ideas was founded by farmworker Josefina Luciano and Erik Nicholson. The organization works to help farmworkers share their innovations and solutions facing agricultural operations.