Pablo, MT

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: On the Flathead Reservation, many older adults face food insecurity and chronic health issues tied to poor nutrition. The project installed eight gardening boxes, purchased lumber for 20 more and provided seeds and soil. Volunteers built boxes and planted vegetables, creating spaces for growing food and teaching traditional preservation. The garden now supplies fresh produce to older adult meal programs and homebound older adults, improving nutrition and reducing isolation. "I was able to plant my salad vegetables with my grandchildren... They enjoyed watering, picking and tasting what we grew," one resident said.

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

Germantown, MD

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: Food insecurity and isolation affected residents near the hospital, especially older adults who faced barriers to healthy eating and physical activity. To address this, Holy Cross Health created an ADA-compliant community garden with 19 plots, two wheelchair-accessible tables and a Harvest Garden for donations and education. The program served 19 families, donated 205 pounds of produce and offered bilingual gardening classes and seedlings. Participants reported eating more fruits and vegetables and feeling more confident growing food. Plans include expanding the garden and partnering with schools and other care programs to broaden impact.

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

Findlay, OH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: Many older adults had limited access to fresh food and safe outdoor spaces, especially in areas with few grocery options and higher rates of disability. These barriers made it harder for residents age 50 or over to stay active, eat well and connect with others. United Way of Hancock County redesigned the Findlay Community Garden to better serve older adults by adding raised beds, clearer pathways and shared gathering areas that reduce physical strain and improve access. The updated layout allowed older residents to garden comfortably and return to a routine many had valued earlier in life. Participants shared that the changes helped them feel independent and connected while growing food for themselves and others. The expanded garden now supports ongoing volunteer involvement, food sharing and long-term use as a stable community resource.

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