The New Jersey Department of Human Services has opened applications for $5 million in grants to help local governments and nonprofits make communities more age-friendly. These grants aim to support initiatives that allow residents to age in place and align with the strategies outlined in the New Jersey Age-Friendly Blueprint.
What is Age-Friendly?
The term “age-friendly” refers to a global movement to create communities that are inclusive and livable for residents of all ages. New Jersey’s Age-Friendly Blueprint, released in May, provides actionable strategies to improve housing, transportation, social inclusion, and more for older adults while fostering a sense of community for everyone.
“This is a great opportunity for communities to implement policies and improvements that better meet the needs of aging residents,” said Commissioner Sarah Adelman. “Remaining at home and engaged in our communities leads to better health outcomes for older adults. Making New Jersey more age-friendly benefits all of us.”
Grant Opportunities Available
Local governments and nonprofit organizations can apply for two types of grants:
- Age-Friendly Communities Grants ($70,000 each)
- Build partnerships, conduct community needs assessments, create action plans, and enroll in the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities.
- Age-Friendly Project Grants ($100,000 each)
- Fund specific projects addressing one or more of the Blueprint’s recommendations.
The grants will be managed by the Department’s Division of Aging Services (DoAS), which will provide training and promote age-friendly practices statewide.
Addressing Key Domains of Livability
Both grants focus on initiatives that improve public policies and quality of life across eight key domains of livability:
- Outdoor spaces and buildings
- Transportation
- Housing
- Social participation
- Respect and social inclusion
- Civic participation and employment
- Communication and information
- Community support and health services
Deputy Commissioner for Aging and Disability Services Kaylee McGuire emphasized, “Everyone benefits from making communities more livable for people of all ages. This funding offers both financial and technical support to help communities create lasting, positive change.”
Growing Need for Age-Friendly Communities in New Jersey
New Jersey’s older adult population is growing rapidly. By 2030, 1 in 5 residents will be 65 or older, up from 1.5 million in 2019 to an estimated 1.9 million by the end of the decade.
In 2021, Governor Phil Murphy established the Age-Friendly State Advisory Council within Human Services. The Council developed the Age-Friendly Blueprint, which positions New Jersey as a leader in age-friendly innovation and outlines strategies such as:
- Expanding the number of age-friendly municipalities
- Integrating aging considerations into public policies
- Reimagining long-term care services
- Ensuring equitable access to health and social supports
“These grants are designed for communities at all stages of becoming age-friendly, from initial planning to full implementation,” said Division of Aging Services Assistant Commissioner Louise Rush.
New Jersey’s Leadership in Age-Friendly Practices
New Jersey joined the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities in 2021, becoming the ninth state to achieve this designation. Today, 24 New Jersey municipalities are part of the network, and these grants aim to expand age-friendly practices statewide.
How to Apply
Local governments and nonprofits interested in applying can find detailed information about eligibility and the application process at nj.gov/humanservices. Applications are being accepted now.
The Next Chapter Series
This story is featured in The Next Chapter, a content series on mybergen.com dedicated to Bergen County’s vibrant and growing 60+ community. Stay updated on age-friendly initiatives, local news, and resources to help you stay active and engaged. Visit The Next Chapter for more stories and updates.
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