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Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center (2017) Print
2017 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Community Health and Economic Empowerment
└ Addressing community health
└ Addressing community health
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center in Newport wanted to encourage community members to eat locally grown fresh produce. In partnership with the Jamestown Community Garden, the Center wrote and published the first two chapters of a community cookbook. They then distributed copies of the book through the local food pantry. The first chapter offers tips on cooking with fall produce -- such as zucchini and squash -- and the second focuses on cooking for one. In addition, the center hosted a food expo, which gave residents access to info about local food resources. The community center intends to host similar events in the future.
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See More Projects Like This One
Boston, MA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Addressing community health
Description: Lower-income residents of Boston's Mattapan, Roxbury and Dorchester neighborhoods often lack access to fresh produce. To help residents grow their own vegetables, the Urban Farming Institute of Boston built and installed backyard grow boxes. The Institute provides one-on-one support to participating families, heling them learn about gardening and cooking techniques. They also host a virtual cooking show -- Destination Cuisine -- featuring local chefs and culturally relevant recipes to inspire residents to prepare healthy, delicious meals.
Honokaa, HI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Addressing community health
Description: This project will update a kitchen used for community meals by replacing appliances, upgrading electrical circuitry and repairing a leaky roof. The improved facility will support the organization's food distribution efforts and create a space for intergenerational cooking classes.
Clifton, NJ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Addressing community health
Description: This project will help create a community pantry by installing shelving, refrigeration units and an accessible ramp. The pantry will simulate a grocery shopping experience, allowing visitors to browse the aisles, select food items and check out with program staff.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Newport, RI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Micromobility enhancements/management
Description: This project will support Cycling Without Age, a program that will provide older people and disabled veterans with trishaw rides, piloted by trained volunteers.
Bristol, RI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Digital Connectivity for Disasters
Description: The town will prepare for the opening of a new senior and community center by conducting sidewalk audits downtown. They will also hold workshops to recruit volunteers and connect residents with town leaders.
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