Community gardens do more than grow fresh food—they cultivate friendships, improve health, and strengthen communities.

The Administration for Community Living (ACL) has launched the Cultivating Connected Communities Challenge, a national initiative supporting community gardens that make gardening more accessible and inclusive for older adults and people with disabilities. Funding is available to help gardens improve accessibility, reduce social isolation, expand healthy food access, and build meaningful community partnerships.

Councils on Aging, Age-Friendly communities, municipalities, nonprofits, and local garden partners are encouraged to explore this opportunity and consider collaborating on projects that promote healthy aging, social connection, and community engagement.

🌼 Accessible gardens can include raised planting beds, adaptive gardening tools, accessible pathways, and inclusive programming that welcomes participants of all abilities.

📅 Phase 1 applications are due August 26, 2026.

Learn more about the challenge and eligibility:
ACL Cultivating Connected Communities Challenge