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For Immediate Release
December 11, 2023
Baltimore, MD - The Maryland Department of Aging is pleased to congratulate ten non-profit and local government organizations that have been awarded grants to promote resilience, social inclusion, independence, and overall community well-being for older Marylanders. Nearly $283,000 has been granted under Maryland Human Services Code § 10-1101 and 10-1102 (FY2024).
"To win the decade, Maryland needs to be the best place to live and build a healthy life. That commitment extends from our youngest Marylanders to our oldest," said Gov. Wes Moore. "Our administration will continue to partner with non-profit and local government organizations to provide the best possible supports to older Marylanders and ensure we leave no one behind.”
The 10 organizations receiving the FY24 Healthy Aging and Supportive Communities grants will use the funds to create supportive environments for aging Marylanders, with an emphasis on innovative approaches to inclusivity, community development, and the provision of comprehensive services for a diverse aging population.
“As part of our ongoing efforts to create a longevity-ready Maryland, we plan to build stronger and more connected communities, reducing social isolation and enhancing the quality of life for older adults,” said Department of Aging Secretary Carmel Roques. “These grants will play a crucial role in advancing the state's commitment to ensuring a healthy and vibrant life for Maryland’s residents, aligning with the broader vision set forth by Governor Moore and the Department of Aging to prepare for longer, healthier lifespans and a growing older population.”
One innovative awardee is Baltimore City-based MedStar Union Memorial Hospital, which operates the J. Van Story Branch Apartment (JVSB) Health and Wellness Center. The Center will use their $30,000 grant to implement an evidence-based peer recovery coach program providing support and resources to JVSB residents.
“Over the past three years, approximately 90% of deaths reported in the JVSB building have been due to overdose,” said Lucas Carlson, MD, Medical Director, Care Transformation, MedStar Health - Baltimore region. “The number of older adults needing treatment for substance use has tripled in the past 20 years, and rates are even higher for individuals who identify as Black or Latino/a.”
Another innovative grant awardee is the Maryland Association of Nonprofit Organizations which will use its $90,000 grant to provide capacity building workshops and cohort learning experiences to small, emerging, and volunteer-led organizations in Maryland, as well as other grantees. These grassroots organizations provide social and educational programs, health and wellness activities, and assistance with transportation, light home maintenance, and technology coaching to help older residents age at home, with minimal resources. For a full list of Healthy Aging and Supportive Communities grant awardees, go to https://aging.maryland.gov/Pages/HealthyAgingGrants.aspx.
Media Contact: Barbara Sigler, Communications Director, Maryland Department of Aging, barbara.sigler@maryland.gov or 410-767-4170
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