Funds for Cooks & Books came from one of 184 grants awarded to localities and organizations nationwide last year, including three in New Jersey, through the fourth annual AARP Community Challenge. The grants fund small projects that help make localities more livable for everyone,
The vast majority of people age 50 and older want to stay in their homes and communities for as long as possible. That's why AARP's Livable Communities work encourages communities to welcome housing options and develop homes that are accessible to residents and guests of all ages and abilities. Across the United States, however, there is a mismatch between the available housing stock and what the market wants and needs. This is partly due to shifting demographics, such as a rapidly aging population and shrinking household sizes, and partly due to the growing demand for walkable living.