NOTE: This release has been updated to reflect the minimum number of hours per week a facility must operate as a senior center.
POUGHKEEPSIE, NY ... Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino announced today the County’s Department of Planning & Development has opened the application process for the 2025 Municipal Investment Grant (MIG) program, with approximately $500,000 available through a competitive grant process to municipalities and non-profit organizations with a 501(c)(3) designation that currently or plan to operate a municipal or County-run senior center or senior friendship center within Dutchess County. In order to be eligible to apply, applicants must own or have a long-term lease (20+ years) for the facility that currently operates or will operate a senior center or senior friendship center at a minimum of 12 hours per week.
County Executive Serino said, “Dutchess County’s seniors have spent their lives strengthening our community, and we owe it to them to ensure they have safe, comfortable places to gather, stay engaged, and build connections. Senior centers are more than just a place to go — they’re a lifeline for older adults — offering social opportunities, support and programs that enhance their quality of life. By investing in these spaces, we’re not only improving buildings, but making sure they have the resources they need to continue thriving. I encourage municipalities and organizations to apply so we can strengthen these vital centers.”
County Executive Serino and the Dutchess County Legislature dedicated specific funding in the 2025 County Budget for capital infrastructure improvements and enhancements to senior centers and senior friendship centers throughout Dutchess County. Projects should help create, maintain or improve an organization’s asset, such as the construction of a new facility or renovation, replacement or expansion of an existing facility.
Examples of eligible expenses include roof, windows and/or doors replacement; heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) improvements or replacement; as well as plumbing, electrical and/or security upgrades; and furniture, fixtures, appliances, equipment and/or supplies that will be used for senior programming at the center. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) improvements to promote accessibility and communication to ensure that individuals with disabilities have an equal opportunity to participate in a specific activity are also eligible.
Majority Leader Deirdre Houston said, “I’m proud to have initiated this grant program that enhances senior centers, ensuring our older adults have the resources and support they deserve.”
The County’s Community Development Advisory Committee and the Department of Planning & Development’s staff will review all MIG applications and send their recommendations to the County Executive for final approval.
Additional information, application instructions and guidance about the 2025 MIG Program is available online. Applications will be accepted via an online portal through May 15th at 3 p.m.; awards will be announced in summer 2025.
