The AARP Community Challenge grants fund quick-turnaround projects that increase community livability and spur long-term progress. This year, Washington State groups won funding for a wide array of projects—from an ADU design competition to a free transit service for older adults.
For every $100 of a worker’s earnings, 58 cents will go into the WA Cares Fund. Starting in July 2026, people who need in-home services, such as help with cooking or bathing, can apply for a WA Cares benefit to help cover the costs.
The number of Washington households with access to the internet is growing, but new users may not be ready for the Wild West that is the World Wide Web.
Changes to the new WA Cares Fund also include allowing employees who live out of state and certain other groups to apply for exemptions. And the program, which was initially set to begin this year, will launch in mid-2023.
AARP Community Challenge grants awarded in three Washington areas this year are funding improved access to high-speed internet, a "story trail" to help children boost physical activity while improving their reading skills, and dozens of small urban gardens.
The WA Cares Fund is a long-term care insurance benefit designed to help residents stay in their homes as they age. Workers pay in and later can tap the fund for services like home-care aides.