\You can access various grants in Connecticut designed specifically to improve seniors’ quality of life through health, safety, and community engagement projects. Programs like Pathways Grants, the David N. Lane Trust, and funding from the Older Americans Act support innovative services that meet the unique needs of older adults, especially women. Many initiatives also complement existing government assistance programs and medical assistance services, helping seniors receive comprehensive care and support.
Understanding eligibility and deadlines is vital if you want your organization to benefit from these valuable resources. What types of senior-focused initiatives have you considered pursuing?
Key Takeaways
- AARP Connecticut’s Livable Communities Grant Program offers up to $5,000 for nonprofit and municipal projects benefiting adults 50+ across eight livability domains
- Connecticut Community Foundation’s Pathways for Older Adults provides $5,000-$15,000 grants annually for programs connecting seniors with benefits, services, and age-friendly community initiatives
- Agencies on Aging administer federal Title III grants for supportive services, disease prevention, and family caregiver support targeting adults 60+ with greatest economic needs
- Multiple funding sources support senior housing, home repairs, transportation, healthcare access, and social engagement through grants ranging from $2,000 to $25,000
- Grant applications typically follow federal fiscal year cycles (October-September) with Letters of Intent due January-March and awards announced by June-August
Pathways Grants & Mini-Grants for Older Adults
Although many grants support older adults, the Pathways Grants and Mini-Grants in Connecticut specifically provide up to $3,000 to fund programs that promote healthy aging and community engagement.
Funded by the East Hill Woods Fund, these grants target initiatives that improve access to resources, foster intergenerational projects, and empower older adults to thrive in their communities. Many programs also extend support to solo caregivers and military veterans, recognizing their unique challenges and the vital role they play in community well-being.
To maximize success, strong grant application strategies should emphasize collaboration and innovative community engagement initiatives.
The program highly encourages partnerships that efficiently improve services, ensuring older adults remain active, engaged, and supported within their neighborhoods.
David N. Lane Trust Grants for Older Women
The David N. Lane Trust grants specifically target enhancing human services quality for older women in Connecticut, focusing on independence and well-being.
When crafting your grant application, emphasize your project’s alignment with the Trust’s mission and its commitment to non-sectarian services. Effective grant application strategies include clearly demonstrating how your program addresses older women’s unique challenges and providing a thorough funding impact assessment to show expected benefits. Some proposals also incorporate support for ex-felons or people with disabilities, especially when these groups intersect with the needs of older women seeking stability and care.
The deadline for submissions is August 31, 2026, giving you ample time to prepare a compelling proposal that promotes health, safety, and overall quality of life for this community.
Women & Girls Fund Support for Senior Women
In terms of supporting senior women in Connecticut, the Women & Girls Fund offers a strong opportunity for nonprofits doing meaningful work. Established in 2001, this fund provides empowerment initiatives focused on senior women’s wellbeing and self-sufficiency.
Your organization can access substantial funding opportunities through grants that support:
- Mental health services and trauma-informed care tailored to senior women’s unique needs
- Leadership development programs that build confidence and foster community engagement
- Skills training initiatives promoting financial independence and life fulfillment
The fund prioritizes projects addressing critical areas like mental health, self-sufficiency, and leadership development.
With an October 16, 2026 application deadline, you’ll have time to develop compelling proposals that demonstrate how your programs help senior women lead fulfilling, productive lives while strengthening your community’s support systems.
Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant Opportunities
When your nonprofit serves vulnerable populations in Connecticut, the Sidney Stern Memorial Trust offers a valuable funding path through its rolling grant program.
You can apply anytime for support that backs well-managed charitable, medical, educational, and scientific organizations with broad impact.
Focus your grant application on initiatives that materially improve seniors’ lives and advance general welfare.
The Trust favors funding strategies that are inclusive, effective, and non-discriminatory.
If your work significantly benefits target communities, this grant could strengthen your mission and expand your reach.
Bank of America Foundation Sponsorships for Basic Needs
Bank of America Foundation invests heavily in nonprofits addressing essential basic needs like food, shelter, and healthcare to reduce poverty and stabilize communities.
You’ll find their sponsorship criteria align with strategic priorities designed to transform lives. Your organization must demonstrate funding alignment with these core areas:
- Programs providing immediate relief for vulnerable populations facing housing instability
- Initiatives connecting individuals to workforce development and economic opportunity
- Services strengthening community resilience through sustainable support systems
You’re encouraged to investigate their comprehensive funding opportunities.
The foundation’s commitment extends beyond grants—they’ve invested millions while facilitating countless volunteer hours.
When submitting your proposal, verify your mission directly addresses basic needs, education, or disaster relief to maximize your chances of securing crucial resources for seniors in Connecticut.
Larry W. McCurdy Family Foundation Grant Focus
Although the Larry W. McCurdy Family Foundation doesn’t target seniors specifically, its grant focus could still support your senior-serving work in Connecticut.
You can request $10,000–$25,000 for community initiatives in arts & culture, animal welfare, and education. The foundation values well-managed organizations that show real funding impact.
They’ve awarded 32 grants totaling $1.4 million over five years, proving strong community support. There are no geographic restrictions and no fixed deadlines, so you can apply when ready.
Focus your request on clear outcomes and how your work improves lives.
Types of Grants Available for Senior Programs
You’ll find several types of grants in Connecticut that can support senior programs, each with a distinct focus and funding source.
These grants reflect varied funding strategies aimed at maximizing grant impact on older adults’ wellbeing.
- Pathways Grants & Mini-Grants offer up to $3,000 for programs fostering healthy aging and community engagement, enabling grassroots initiatives to thrive.
- Title III Funding supports services like transportation, case management, and caregiver help via local agencies, ensuring essential elder care reaches those in need.
- Specialized Grants such as the Alzheimer’s Aide Grants and the David N. Lane Trust exclusively address Alzheimer’s care and support for older women, promoting targeted health and mental wellness programs.
Lawrence Foundation Environmental and Human Services Grants
You can apply to The Lawrence Foundation for environmental or human services grants that support seniors in Connecticut.
They typically give $5,000–$10,000 in unrestricted funding for general operations or specific projects.
Since they’ve no geographic restrictions, your Connecticut senior program is eligible to apply.
Environmental Grant Criteria
- Demonstrate clear impact through environmental initiatives that address community needs.
- Maintain strong fiscal responsibility as the foundation prioritizes effective fund usage.
- Apply anytime, as the foundation accepts proposals on an ongoing basis with no geographic limits.
Human Services Funding
The Lawrence Foundation extends its support beyond environmental work to include human services, making it a relevant funder for organizations serving seniors in Connecticut.
Their grants, usually between $5,000 and $10,000, emphasize community outreach by supporting projects with tangible impacts on older adults.
Their funding strategies offer flexible, ongoing evaluation without geographical restrictions, broadening access for Connecticut nonprofits.
They prioritize applicants’ fiscal responsibility and the real benefits delivered to the community, allowing you to pursue either general operating or specific program grants to strengthen services for seniors efficiently.
How to Determine If Your Organization Is Eligible
Consider these to determine eligibility:
- Serve towns within the designated 20-town region
- Be a registered public, private non-profit, or proprietary agency
- Align program goals with local Area Agencies on Aging priorities and the Older Americans Act
Following these steps increases your chance of funding success.
Grant Categories Under the Older Americans Act in Connecticut
While your organization may already know it serves older adults well, Connecticut’s Older Americans Act funding breaks down into clear grant categories that match specific senior needs.
You’ll find Supportive Services (Title IIIB) grants for transportation, information, and outreach, plus Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (Title IIID) for wellness programs.
Family Caregiver Support (Title IIIE) helps caregivers directly. Grant eligibility ties to serving adults 60+, and funding priorities focus on those with the greatest economic and social needs, aligning with Connecticut’s State Plan on Aging.
Key Dates and Deadlines for Senior Service Grants
You’ll want to keep track of important application deadlines for senior service grants to guarantee your proposals are submitted on time.
Different grants have specific due dates throughout the year, ranging from May through October 2026.
Staying organized with these key dates and understanding submission requirements will improve your chances of securing funding.
Application Deadlines Overview
Several key grant application deadlines for senior services in Connecticut fall throughout 2026, so it’s critical to track these dates carefully.
Smart grant writing and solid funding strategies make all the difference when competing for limited resources.
Mark these major deadlines:
- David N. Lane Trust Grant – August 31, 2026
- Gupta Family Foundation pre-proposal – September 19, 2026
- Women & Girls Fund – October 16, 2026
Plan early, align your proposal with each funder’s priorities, and submit well before the cutoff.
Submission Requirements Timeline
To meet grant submission requirements effectively, you must carefully track key deadlines throughout 2026 and prepare all necessary documents in advance.
Submit your David N. Lane Trust grant proposal by August 31, 2026, ensuring it aligns with their focus on quality human services for older women in Connecticut.
File your Gupta Family Foundation pre-proposal by September 19, 2026, and Women & Girls Fund application by October 16, 2026, both supporting senior women.
Meet the Lawrence Foundation’s May 11, 2026, and Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation’s May 15, 2026, deadlines.
Use strong grant proposal strategies and confirm funding eligibility criteria early.
State-by-State Grants for Seniors
| Alabama | Offers senior grants for housing repairs, healthcare assistance, utilities, and low-income support programs. |
| Alaska | Provides grants and aid for seniors covering heating costs, healthcare access, and rural assistance programs. |
| Arizona | Includes senior grants for housing, prescription assistance, food programs, and property tax relief. |
| Arkansas | Supports seniors through grants for medical care, utility assistance, home repairs, and nutrition services. |
| California | Provides extensive senior grants for housing assistance, healthcare, caregiving, and cost-of-living relief. |
| Colorado | Offers financial aid for seniors including housing grants, medical assistance, and energy support programs. |
| Delaware | Provides senior-focused grants for medical care, housing stability, utilities, and daily living expenses. |
| Florida | Offers grants for seniors covering housing, healthcare, hurricane assistance, and home modification needs. |
| Georgia | Supports seniors with grants for medical care, housing assistance, food programs, and utility relief. |
| Hawaii | Provides senior grants for housing stability, healthcare access, and cost-of-living assistance. |
| Idaho | Includes financial aid programs for seniors covering healthcare, utilities, and home repairs. |
| Illinois | Offers senior grants for property tax relief, healthcare assistance, housing, and food security. |
| Indiana | Provides grants supporting senior healthcare, housing stability, and essential living expenses. |
| Iowa | Includes senior grant programs for medical costs, housing repairs, and energy assistance. |
| Kansas | Offers grants to seniors for healthcare, housing improvements, and utility support. |
| Kentucky | Supports seniors with grants for medical needs, housing repairs, and nutrition assistance. |
| Louisiana | Provides financial assistance for seniors including healthcare grants and home repair programs. |
| Maine | Includes senior grants for heating assistance, healthcare access, and housing stability. |
| Maryland | Offers grants for seniors covering healthcare costs, property taxes, and home modifications. |
| Massachusetts | Provides senior assistance grants for housing, healthcare, utilities, and daily living expenses. |
| Michigan | Supports seniors through grants for medical bills, housing repairs, and energy assistance. |
| Minnesota | Includes senior grant programs for healthcare support, housing stability, and food assistance. |
| Mississippi | Provides grants for seniors covering healthcare access, utilities, and essential living needs. |
| Missouri | Offers financial assistance programs for seniors focused on healthcare and housing support. |
| Montana | Supports seniors with grants for heating assistance, medical care, and housing repairs. |
| Nebraska | Includes senior grants for healthcare, property tax relief, and energy assistance. |
| Nevada | Provides financial support for seniors covering housing stability and healthcare needs. |
| New Hampshire | Offers grants for seniors focused on heating assistance, medical care, and housing support. |
| New Jersey | Includes senior grants for healthcare costs, property taxes, and housing assistance. |
| New Mexico | Provides grants supporting senior healthcare access and essential living expenses. |
| New York | Offers extensive senior grants for housing, healthcare, utilities, and cost-of-living relief. |
| North Carolina | Supports seniors with grants for healthcare, housing stability, and utility assistance. |
| North Dakota | Includes financial aid programs for seniors covering healthcare and heating assistance. |
| Ohio | Provides grants for seniors focused on healthcare access, housing repairs, and utilities. |
| Oklahoma | Offers senior assistance grants for medical care, housing needs, and food programs. |
| Oregon | Includes senior grant programs for healthcare support, housing stability, and energy costs. |
| Pennsylvania | Supports seniors through grants for medical expenses, housing, and property tax relief. |
| Rhode Island | Provides financial assistance for seniors covering healthcare and housing stability. |
| South Carolina | Offers senior grants for medical care, utilities, housing repairs, and nutrition support. |
| South Dakota | Includes grants for seniors focused on healthcare access and heating assistance. |
| Tennessee | Provides financial aid programs for seniors covering healthcare and housing needs. |
| Texas | Offers senior grants for healthcare costs, housing assistance, and utility support. |
| Utah | Supports seniors with grants for medical care, housing stability, and energy assistance. |
| Vermont | Includes senior assistance programs for healthcare access and housing support. |
| Virginia | Provides grants for seniors covering medical care, housing repairs, and utility costs. |
| Washington | Offers financial support for seniors including healthcare, housing, and daily living assistance. |
| West Virginia | Supports seniors with grants for healthcare, utilities, and essential living expenses. |
| Wisconsin | Includes senior grants for medical care, housing stability, and energy assistance. |
| Wyoming | Provides financial assistance for seniors covering healthcare access and heating costs. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Is Eligible for the $5000 Grant in CT?
You’re eligible for the $5000 grant if you’re a low-income senior 62+ who owns and lives in a modest home in a designated south central CT town. Meeting the $5000 eligibility criteria means you can apply through the simple grant application process.
Is There Any Free Grant Money?
Yes, you can access free financial assistance through grants like the Pathways for Older Adults, offering up to $3,000 with a clear grant application process via the Connecticut Community Foundation’s online portal.
What Grants Are Available in CT?
You can access several state funding grants for senior assistance in Connecticut, including up to $3,000 from the East Hill Woods Fund, OAA Title III supportive services, and Pathways for Older Adults grants between $5,000–$15,000.
What Are the Benefits of Senior Citizens in Connecticut?
You get healthcare assistance through programs like the Older Americans Act and tax benefits such as property tax credits, plus targeted support for housing, energy, and services that help you live safely and independently in Connecticut.
Conclusion
You’re in the right place if your work lifts up older women in Fairfield and New Haven counties. Focus on housing, health, and human services, and apply by June 15. Remember, “a rising tide lifts all boats”—supporting these women strengthens entire communities. Be clear, be specific, and show how your program makes a real difference in their lives.