Clifton, NJ

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Addressing community health

Description: Passaic County faced high food insecurity, leaving many older adults without reliable access to nutritious meals. To restore dignity and choice, The Food Brigade opened a client-choice pantry modeled like a grocery store, complete with aisles, carts, refrigeration and ADA-access ramps. Volunteers stocked shelves with culturally appropriate foods and healthier options. The pantry now empowers residents to shop for what they need and has inspired other pantries to adopt similar models. "It's such a great feeling to be able to take what you need as opposed to what you can afford," shared one client, reflecting its impact on well-being.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.

Fontana, CA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017

Project Category: Addressing community health

Description: The City of Fontana wanted to motivate its residents to incorporate walking into their daily routines. To do this, the City launched its Fontana Walks program, with the goal of recording two billion steps taken by locals in a year, equaling roughly 1 million miles. Participants registered and received a pedometer and water bottle to help them get going. The City then held its inaugural community walk, which attracted with 100 participants, with hundreds more lacing up their shoes over the next few months. To keep the momentum going, the City created a website with tips and motivation for walkers. The City has continued to host monthly community walks, each featuring a theme.

Topeka, KS

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Addressing community health

Description: Food insecurity and poor nutrition challenged older adults in Topeka. The organization built a temperature-controlled greenhouse and picnic area to provide fresh produce year-round and a space for social connection. Residents learned gardening techniques and shared crops, while volunteers installed benches and solar lighting. "Standing back and seeing the final product was rewarding," said a project lead. The greenhouse now supports cooking classes and partnerships with local gardens, creating long-term access to healthy food and education on nutrition.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.