Over 1.2 Million in Grants Announced to Expand Community Engagement and Behavioral Health Support for Boston's Older Residents

Mayor Michelle Wu announced $1. 276 million in grants designed to enhance community engagement and behavioral health support for Boston residents aged 60 and older. The Expanding Engagement grant program distributed $570,000 to 44 nonprofit organizations to create or expand programs that foster social connections among seniors. The Behavioral Health grant program awarded $706,000 to 11 nonprofits to improve access to culturally sensitive mental health services for older adults. Wu emphasized the grants' role in making Boston a welcoming place for every generation.

Age Strong Commissioner Emily K. Shea remarked on the increasing interest in these grants, which reflects the community's pressing needs. City Councilor Brian Worrell stressed the importance of addressing senior loneliness and praised the budget increase for Age Strong in FY26. The selected organizations represent a diverse array of partners committed to serving Boston's older residents. These initiatives aim to enhance social engagement and provide vital behavioral health support, reaching thousands of older Bostonians.