Launch Catch-Up — Winners Announced October 23, 2026
The Administration for Community Living selected 70 teams for the first phase of a national challenge to make community gardens more accessible to older adults and people with disabilities, HHS announced October 23.
Each winning team will receive $4,000 and can participate in a second phase to implement its plans and measure results. Teams can earn an additional prize of up to $8,000 based on that work, with submissions due in May 2027.
Organizers from 37 states and Tribal communities submitted proposals. An expert panel evaluated accessibility, sustainability and community partnerships, according to the department.
Proposed improvements include changes to raised-bed heights, adaptive gardening tools and inclusive programs. The competition addresses barriers faced by people with intellectual, developmental and physical disabilities as well as older residents.
The awards fund planned improvements. The announcement does not establish that the gardens have completed construction or that participants have experienced measured health benefits. The challenge builds on USDA’s People’s Garden initiative.
Sources: HHS announcement, October 23: https://www.hhs.gov/press-room/acl-announces-winners-community-gardens-accessibility-challenge.html