NJ Fights Senior Loneliness With $4M Grant

New Jersey is launching a major initiative against what health officials describe as a “rising epidemic” of loneliness among its most vulnerable residents.

On Friday, The New Jersey Department of Human Services opened applications for a $4 million grant initiative designed to foster social connection for older adults and individuals living with disabilities. 

Called the Senior Wellness Pilot Program, the initiative will provide local governments and nonprofit organizations with the resources needed to bridge the gap between isolated residents and their communities.

The $4 Million Investment in Social Health

Under the new program, eligible entities can apply for individual grants of up to $250,000. The goal is to fund innovative projects that reimagine how the state supports those who are homebound or living in institutional settings.

“Older residents and people with disabilities can face a variety of barriers to maintaining the social lives they desire,” said state Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman. 

Addressing the “Loneliness Epidemic”

The urgency of the grant stems from a stark reality revealed in the 2023 New Jersey Social Isolation Study, which found that an estimated 44% of the state’s older adult population is socially isolated.

Experts warn that this isolation isn’t just a matter of feeling lonely; it is a significant public health risk. Socially isolated individuals are at a higher risk for chronic physical and mental health issues, particularly those with limited transportation or lower incomes.

“Loneliness among adults is rising at an alarming rate,” added Deputy Commissioner Kaylee McGuire. “Now is the time to invest in our communities and strengthen the ties that bind us.”

What Bidders Need to Know

To qualify for the funding, organizations must demonstrate a clear plan to:

• Facilitate meaningful social interaction.
• Target underserved populations, including homebound individuals and non-English speakers.
• Measure participant progress and retention effectively.

The program aligns with the 2024 New Jersey Age-Friendly Blueprint, a statewide framework that prioritizes social participation as a pillar of healthy aging. By integrating older adults into multi-generational and multi-cultural activities, the state hopes to build more inclusive neighborhoods for all.

Deadlines and Next Steps

All grant proposals must be submitted by the January 13, 2026, deadline.