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Wednesday, March 26, 2025

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Democrats call for Pete Hegseth and Mike Waltz to resign; NOAA staff cuts could affect CO wildfire, avalanche, flash flood warnings; Facing funding hurdles, IL 'March for Meals' event moves forward; PA school support staffers push for $20 'living wage'; Judge orders U.S. to stop attempts to deport Columbia undergrad student.

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'Textgate' draws congressional scrutiny. Trump policies on campus protests and federal workforce cuts are prompting lawsuits as their impacts on economic stability and weather data become clearer.

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Cuts to Medicaid and frozen funding for broadband are both likely to have a negative impact on rural healthcare, which is already struggling. Plus, lawsuits over the mass firing of federal workers have huge implications for public lands.

AARP Pennsylvania seeks ideas for grants to boost 'livability'

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Tuesday, January 28, 2025   

Pennsylvania cities or civic groups with ideas for improving their communities have a new chance to make them a reality.

Grants from the AARP Community Challenge fund projects which do not take long to complete. Since 2017, the group's Pennsylvania chapter has given almost $500,000 in grants toward 41 projects.

Bill Johnston-Walsh, state director of AARP Pennsylvania, said this is the ninth year for the grants and applications are being accepted for three different grant opportunities: capacity-building microgrants, demonstration, and what he explained are known as flagship grants.

"Flagship grants, focused on improving public places, transportation, housing, digital connections and being resilient in the community," Johnston-Walsh outlined.

He said AARP Community Challenge grants fund quick-action projects to boost "livability" and help improve walk and bike audits, home modifications, pedestrian safety and more. Applications are open now through March 5.

Johnston-Walsh added nonprofits and government entities often need up-front funds and resources to start meaningful community projects. The grants help jump-start such activities, enhancing the lives of Pennsylvanians.

"In the past, some of these grants have gone to build parks in local neighborhoods," Johnston-Walsh recounted. "We've had fitness equipment put up so that people can continue to exercise. We have transportation programs making communities more walkable. "

Johnston-Walsh added while AARP focuses on those aged 50 and older, the Community Challenge grants benefit all ages.

Disclosure: AARP Pennsylvania contributes to our fund for reporting on Budget Policy and Priorities, Consumer Issues, Livable Wages/Working Families, and Senior Issues. If you would like to help support news in the public interest, click here.


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