Best Aging Grants in New Jersey

Nonprofit organizations serving seniors in New Jersey can seek project-specific funding for senior care, life-enrichment programming, health, housing security, and related community services. With a mission to support a thriving local nonprofit sector, The Summit Foundation provides competitive grants for initiatives that significantly benefit residents in the Summit area.

New Jersey Department of Health

The scope of work for the public health system is ever-expanding, and the Department is on the frontlines in leading the response to public health challenges. The Department has three primary branches – Public Health Services, Health Systems, and Integrated Health. All work collaboratively toward improving health by strengthening New Jersey’s health system.

Our Mission: Protect the public’s health, promote healthy communities, and continue to improve the quality of health care in New Jersey

Smile Strong New Jersey

Executive Summary

The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH), Population Health Branch, Division of Health Promotion (DOHP), Oral Health Services Unit, is announcing a competitive Request for Applications (RFA) for the 2027 Smile Strong NJ. This statewide initiative is designed to improve oral health education, literacy, and access to preventive services among Head Start and Early Head Start children, school-aged children (Pre-K through 12), school nurses, school staff, parents, community organizations, parenting groups, and other vulnerable populations, including pregnant women and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The program also supports the delivery of preventive oral health services and facilitates the establishment of a dental home, ensuring continuity of care and access to ongoing oral healthcare services across the lifespan.

Nonprofit or public health entities in New Jersey seeking to deliver preventive oral health services can apply for the FACES grant, awarding US $25,000 - US $50,000 for fluoride varnish, education, and screening programs. Focused on children pre-K–12, it may also support seniors in assisted living or nursing homes at high risk for dental decay.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Middlesex County, New Jersey that serve seniors, children’s health and education, or public health projects can apply for funding from the Sidney J. Harris Trust. Grants of US $10,000 - US $20,000 may support senior services, disease prevention, nutrition, substance use education, and related community health initiatives.

Nonprofit organizations providing people-focused services such as senior programs, housing, health, or family support in New Jersey and other MGM regions can seek one-year grants. Focused on community services, MGM Resorts Foundation invites agencies serving seniors, veterans, families, and vulnerable residents to propose projects addressing housing, food insecurity, wellness, homelessness, and economic opportunity.

Faith-based and community organizations in New Jersey can receive up to US $40,000 to run senior services, food security, or civic and community engagement programs. The New Jersey Office of Faith Based Initiatives supports activities that promote aging in place, reduce isolation, address food insecurity, and build residents’ advocacy skills alongside local leaders.

New Jersey senior services and aging-focused 501(c)(3) nonprofits can access funding through Dermody Properties Foundation to support programs for older adults and related family needs. Grants of US $500 - US $3,000 assist organizations located within 30 miles of a Dermody project, especially those serving seniors, children, families, people with disabilities, and individuals facing homelessness or substance use disorders.

Nonprofit organizations and government agencies in New Jersey can receive funding to administer the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program, screening and approving low-income seniors for benefits. The State of New Jersey Department of Health supports senior services and nutrition efforts; applicants must first submit a letter of intent, inquiry, or concept paper before receiving the full application.

U.S.-based nonprofits, government entities, and universities working to make aging more affordable through systems-level change can seek Changing Aging support for innovative senior services and aging programs, including in New Jersey. Next50 Foundation prioritizes low- and moderate-income older adults from marginalized or underserved communities and requires alignment with its priority areas, mission-aligned populations, innovation, and strong partnerships.

With a mission to support health and aging services, nonprofits in New Jersey can seek funding from the Albert G and Olive H Schlink Foundation for senior services, gerontology, and related care. While national in scope, organizations serving older adults, including those in New Jersey, may receive support for patient care, residential, and end-of-life services.

New Jersey 501(c)(3) public charities addressing the needs of older adults can access funding through Friends Foundation for the Aging for innovative, program-based aging services. Organizations, especially Quaker or values-aligned groups and small grassroots nonprofits serving underserved seniors and caregivers, may receive support for collaborative, replicable initiatives that advance healthy aging and intergenerational connection.

New Jersey 501(c)(3) organizations and fiscally sponsored projects serving Japanese American and broader Asian American seniors, youth, or cultural and historical programs can apply for US $2,500 - US $50,000 in project funding. Focused on senior health and services, history, arts and culture, and youth, JA Community Foundation supports programs across all 50 states.

Nonprofit organizations advancing advocacy for adults 60+ can seek funding for regional or national policy-change projects in the U.S., including New Jersey, with awards from US $10,000 - US $160,000. Retirement Research Foundation supports efforts addressing systemic issues like economic security, health care, and housing for older Americans, excluding lobbying activities.

New Jersey nonprofits serving LGBTQ+ older adults can access funding through the Leonard Litz Foundation’s SilverConnect Initiative to strengthen senior services and aging support. Grants back programs that reduce isolation, improve quality of life, and expand affirming resources such as social connection, healthcare navigation, housing support, and community-based services for LGBTQ+ elders across the Eastern U.S.

Nonprofit research organizations in New Jersey proposing applied studies on adults age 60+ and their caregivers can seek support for aging-focused research projects. Grants from RRF Foundation for Aging help fund interventional trials, translational studies, and health services or policy research with national U.S. relevance or regional impact in Illinois that produce practical guidance for the aging network.

New Jersey research institutions and universities focused on senior services and gerontology can access funding through the National Institutes of Health to establish Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Centers. These P30 centers support geriatrics research and research education aimed at maintaining or restoring independence for older adults across the U.S. territories and states.

New Jersey 501(c)(3) organizations serving seniors can access funding through Wallerstein Foundation for Geriatric Life Improvement to support projects that help older adults stay healthy, active, and engaged. Grants back senior services such as adult day care, dementia and stroke support, home health and wellness, nutrition, transportation, and related geriatric research.

Health care leaders focused on improving care for older adults in New Jersey and nationwide can receive scholarships to join the AHA Next Generation Leaders Fellowship, implementing the Age-Friendly Health Systems 4Ms Framework. John A Hartford Foundation covers the US $13,995 program fee for selected Age-Friendly Fellows; travel and other costs are excluded.

The McKnight Clinical Translational Research Scholarship supports young investigators focusing on cognitive aging and age-related memory loss. Funded by the McKnight Brain Research Foundation, this scholarship offers $65,000 annually for two years, plus an education stipend. Eligible applicants should have completed their PhD or residency within the last five years and conduct their research in accredited U.S. institutions. The award emphasizes rigorous training and aims to foster careers in human cognitive aging research.

The JTMF Foundation Grant focuses on improving the lives of individuals in need, particularly in the Pacific Northwest. By partnering with organizations addressing immediate needs and long-term challenges, the foundation supports children, older adults, veterans, and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Guided by Catholic values, JTMF aims to empower communities while seeking innovative solutions to societal issues. Organizations that align with these focus areas are encouraged to connect, fostering a collaborative effort towards meaningful impact.

The NIA Expanding Research in AD/ADRD Postbaccalaureate Research Education Program aims to enhance the research workforce by providing intensive research experiences for recent graduates. This initiative supports early-stage investigators in Alzheimer's Disease and related dementias, addressing a critical shortage of researchers in the field. Participants engage in independent research, mentorship, and professional development, equipping them with skills necessary for advanced degrees and research careers in aging and dementia. The program fosters innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration essential for advancing AD/ADRD research.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving seniors and other residents in Ocean County, New Jersey can apply for the Charles B. Mathis Memorial Trust’s US $1,500 - US $5,000 grants to support local programs. Grants from Charles B Mathis Memorial Tr help New Jersey aging and senior-service providers with health, human services, education, and related community initiatives.

501(c)(3) charitable, benevolent, and religious organizations serving seniors and other needy Christians in New Jersey can apply for the Robert J. Keown Trust’s grants, awarding US $10,000 - US $20,000 for support services. Programs aiding elderly Christian women or infirm Christians without visible means of support may be especially competitive.

The Harry Kramer Memorial Fund Grant supports U.S. charitable organizations that assist individuals and institutions in Israel, focusing on welfare, healthcare for the sick and aged, and education in South Florida. Founded by Harry A. Kramer, a successful entrepreneur and veteran, the fund reflects his deep commitment to charitable causes. Organizations must qualify under Section 501(c)(3) and meet specific eligibility criteria to apply for funding, ensuring that aid reaches those in need.

The David Kelby Johnson Memorial Foundation offers grants to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on sight preservation, children's services, and environmental conservation, primarily in Utah. Established in memory of David Kelby Johnson, who tragically lost his life at a young age, the foundation aims to honor his legacy by supporting impactful charitable initiatives. Grants range from $5,000 to $100,000, with a commitment to improving communities both locally and globally.

The Transition to Aging Research Award for Predoctoral Students, funded by the National Institute on Aging (NIA), invites exceptional graduate students to pursue aging-related postdoctoral training. This two-phase award supports late-stage doctoral candidates in completing dissertation projects across diverse research areas. It aims to facilitate smooth transitions into competitive aging-focused postdoctoral roles, fostering the development of future investigators in aging research. This initiative is designed to enhance collaboration and impactful research in the field of aging.

Joseph G Markoly Foundation Inc

When Joseph Markoly originally established the foundation more than thirty years ago, its focus was on Alzheimer’s and heart disease support, funded through a number of the larger national disease-related organizations. Over time the focus has shifted to helping small to mid-size organizations in our local communities which support children and seniors in a variety of effective ways. 

Markoly Foundation was established in honor of Joseph G. Markoly, an entrepreneur and philanthropist who wanted to make a positive impact in people’s lives. Joseph’s family was affected directly by both Alzheimer’s and heart disease having lost a family member to each condition. For that reason, the foundation dedicates a majority of their resources to providing grants to organizations that focus on the treatment of each of these diseases. In addition, Markoly Foundation supports a variety of programs dedicated to helping children and seniors by providing services, supplies, programs and research in areas impacting these demographics.

Joseph G. Markoly Foundation Grant Support for Elder Organizations

The Markoly Foundation takes pride in supporting local organizations that provide services for elders in our community. Seniors face a number of challenges that come with aging, especially when they don’t have loved ones who are able to assist them with their needs. We provide grants for a variety of senior-related programs from Caregiver Education and Support to Emergency Meal Delivery and Transportation Services.

We are dedicated to providing funding for local nonprofit programs that improve the quality of life for all, but particularly for the children and elders in our community.