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Franklin County Public Health (2024) Print
2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Disaster Resilience
└ Emergency preparedness skills
└ Emergency preparedness skills
Frequent tornadoes and flooding put older adults with mobility or medical needs at high risk. To improve readiness, Franklin County Public Health distributed 160 emergency kits with essentials like flashlights, first aid supplies and convertible bags on wheels. They paired this with disaster planning education at more than 20 community events, including tips for pets and service animals. The effort boosted awareness, strengthened partnerships and set a model for future programs. This helps lay the groundwork for sustained outreach and policy advocacy to protect vulnerable residents.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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Ossipee, NH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Emergency preparedness skills
Description: Frequent severe storms left older adults in remote homes vulnerable during evacuations or prolonged isolation. To boost preparedness, the group distributed 215 rolling backpacks stocked with essentials like weather radios, flashlights and water purification tablets at town events. It also provided checklists and registry sign-ups for residents with special needs. Participants said the effort made them feel empowered to plan ahead, and requests for similar programs have come from other communities as organizers work to expand the initiative.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Portland, OR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Emergency preparedness skills
Description: East Portland neighborhoods faced climate risks and social isolation, leaving older adults and people with disabilities vulnerable during emergencies. To build resilience, the coalition hosted 10 Live Well Cafe events where residents shared ideas on aging well, home safety and mutual aid. Discussions included multilingual sessions and practical tips like adding handrails or creating family compounds. The project strengthened social ties and raised awareness of emergency preparedness, sparking plans for Community Resilience Hubs and informing local strategies for more inclusive, connected neighborhoods.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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Columbus, OH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Expanding High-Speed Internet
Description: The program will deliver hands-on digital skills classes at senior housing properties. Residents will gain confidence using devices to access services, remain independent, and stay socially connected.
Columbus, OH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
Description: Older tenants living with arthritis faced a high risk of falls in bathrooms, where a single slip could lead to injury, loss of independence and costly care. LifeCare Alliance modified 21 homes with tub-mount grab bars, shower seats and toilet safety frames. It also added anti-slip mats, raised toilet seats and night lights for extra protection. These changes help older adults remain safe and independent at home, reducing hospitalizations and nursing home placement. One client said she was "no longer afraid" to shower after receiving a grab bar and shower chair.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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