6 days ago
$5 million in funding available for Tennessee senior centers: What to know
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — Senior centers can send applications to the Department of Disability and Aging (DDA) for grant funding, a state spokesperson said.
The Tennessee General Assembly has set aside $5 million in one-time funding for senior centers throughout the state. This money is meant to help give older adults access to resources, activities and social connections. It can be spent on goals including:
Capital Projects, such as building improvements and equipment
Marketing
Programming and activities
Routine operating expenses other than staff salaries
Applications are due by 4 p.m. central time on August 8, and centers have to spend the funding by March 31, 2027. Centers can apply for funding between $10,000 and $50,000.
Morristown hosts the Tennessee State Disc Golf Championships
Individuals and long-term care/assisted living facilities are not included. The state gave the following qualifications for centers:
A single-purpose agency with programs and activities designed and operated only for the benefit of adults aged 60 and over; or
A multi-purpose agency with a broad spectrum of services, which shall include provisions of health, social, nutritional, and educational services, and the provision of facilities for recreational activities for adults aged 60 and over; and,
An organization with established programming that provides a minimum of 16 hours a month of activities or services specifically targeted for adults 60 and over.
READ: More top stories on
'DDA is committed to ensuring senior centers in both rural and urban communities across the state are vibrant and thriving,' said DDA Commissioner Brad Turner. 'We hope this funding can help enhance the offerings, improve equipment, modernize buildings, and ensure that our senior centers continue to be spaces where older adults can access resources, connect with their peers, and enjoy a wide range of activities.'
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
