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Jersey City Housing Authority (2022) Print
2022 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Digital Connections
└ Digital navigation skills
└ Digital navigation skills
Many older adults in Hudson Gardens public housing lacked internet access and digital skills, leaving them isolated from essential services and family connections. To close this gap, the housing authority distributed Wi-Fi-enabled tablets and partnered with Hudson County Community College. Student tutors provided one-on-one lessons on email, online safety and using free broadband programs. The sessions helped 46 residents gain digital confidence and independence. One participant said the program was a "lifesaver," sharing that her bills now cost less and she can finally explore games and other tools on her new tablet.
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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See More Projects Like This One
Jersey City, NJ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: The Jersey City Housing Authority aimed to use technology to reduce social isolation and improve community connections at one of its age-restricted public housing complexes. The Authority a created a computer lab onsite, outfitting the space with desktop computers and a printer. To help residents use the technology, they Authority worked with partners to host one-on-one and small group digital literacy training in Spanish and English. Topics included computer and internet basics, email and digital art and design. Additionally, the Authority installed voice-activated smart home devices in individual apartments. Since introducing the new technology, the Authority has also worked to ensure residents have access to reliable broadband internet service.
San Antonio, TX
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Older adults in Opportunity Home communities faced a deep digital divide, lacking devices and skills to manage health care, benefits and communication. The project installed laptop computers in 11 properties and provided additional laptops for classes led by Older Adults Technology Services. Across nine sites, 35 courses delivered 90 hours of instruction, with nearly 100 graduates gaining confidence to navigate online services and connect with family. The initiative reduced isolation, created peer support networks and eliminated barriers like transportation costs. This has positioned the community for sustained digital inclusion and future partnerships.
Denver, CO
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: This project will offer free digital navigation classes for residents, particularly those age 50 and older. The initiative will increase access to technology and hands-on training, helping residents and improve their digital skills.
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Jersey City, NJ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Entrepreneurship and improved economic resilience
Description: Older Section 3 workers struggled to shift from physically demanding jobs as Jersey City's high living costs and digital skills gap left many age 50-plus at risk of economic instability. The 50+ Workforce Transitions Program provided laptops and hands-on training to spreadsheets, documents and other useful office technology. In addition, students learned resume building, usage of social media for business connections and virtual interviewing. These, plus new skills using AI tools for crafting professional materials, helped many achieve greater confidence and digital fluency, with some already securing new roles. Continued referrals to advanced training and career services aim to sustain progress and expand networks for lasting economic resilience.
Jersey City, NJ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: To give residents at Marion Gardens the opportunity to gather, project organizers beautified a concrete area onsite. Residents of the public housing complex came together to plant trees, shrubs and flowers in an area of the property prone to flooding, with the new foliage acting as green infrastructure to absorb rainwater. To ensure care of the new trees long-term, project organizers also created a tree maintenance manual with pruning techniques and other tips. Since the planting, organizers have worked to plan a mural at the site.
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