AARP announced the newest recipients of their annual Community Challenge Grant that spanned three categories – Flagship Awards, Demonstration Grants and Capacity-Building Micro-Grants.

Congratulations to the Massachusetts grantees listed below:

Flagship Grant Awards:

• Amherst: Amherst Business Improvement District — This project will add seating, lighting, and greenery to create a safer, more accessible, and inviting plaza. This revitalized area near senior housing and a community center will foster social connections for older adults.

• Ayer (and surrounding towns): Health Equity Partnership of North Central Massachusetts — This project will create telehealth access hubs, providing supportive environments for residents to connect with care providers. These hubs will offer private rooms, technical assistance, and digital literacy classes.

• Boston: Wakullah Street Community Garden Inc. — This project will improve accessibility for older adults by widening and leveling paths, adding solar lighting, and providing internet access. These upgrades will enhance safety and support community meetings.

Demonstration Grants:

• North Adams: North Adams Partnership — This project features an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) design competition to address the housing needs of residents age 50 and over.
• Worcester: Worcester Common Ground Inc. — This project will enhance safety and walkability along Pleasant Street by installing artistic crosswalks and wayfinding signage.
• Chelsea: La Colaborativa — This project will transform the Route One Bridge underspace into a hub where older adults can access health services, nutritious food, and engage in cultural, social, and fitness activities.

Capacity-Building Micro-Grantees:

• Newburyport: Newburyport Livable Streets — This project will conduct bike audits on Low Street and High Street. Findings will be presented to the City’s Traffic Safety Committee, in a public meeting, a written report, and on a website.
• Roslindale: WalkUP Roslindale — This project aims to enhance pedestrian safety and accessibility in Roslindale Square through three walk audits and two community meetings. It will focus on sidewalk, crosswalk, and signage improvements.
• Pittsfield: City of Pittsfield Senior Center — This project will offer interactive workshops, personalized emergency planning, and emergency supply kits to help older adults prepare for severe weather and power outages.
• Westford: Habitat for Humanity of Greater Lowell — This project will conduct two educational trainings on home safety and comfort, targeting older adults and their families in English and Spanish. The program offers assistance to qualified seniors, veterans, and families to address health, safety, and code violations.