Wayland Secures Grant for Accelerating Climate Resilience for Elders Program

Wayland has secured a $44,000 grant under the "Accelerating Climate Resilience” program from the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC). The funding is earmarked for Wayland to spearhead a collaborative effort with neighboring municipalities including Ashland, Framingham, Natick, and Weston, to address the escalating impacts of extreme heat caused by climate change. Notably, the summer of 2023 set a record for heat, highlighting the urgency of addressing this issue. 

Extreme heat and other climate impacts disproportionately affect older adults and elders due to their susceptibility to health issues, social isolation, mobility constraints, and varied living conditions. When compounded by socio-economic factors such as poverty or language barriers, their vulnerability to the detrimental effects of heat are exacerbated. Consequently, the focus of this program is preventing elders from being overwhelmed by this growing issue.

Termed Accelerating Climate Resilience for Elders (ACRE) this program is scheduled to commence in January of 2024 and conclude by January 2025. This project relies on partnerships with each community’s Sustainability Staff, Council on Aging, and Elder Residents known as Elder Climate Liaisons.

This program will feature a movie series, round table discussions, and informational workshops. In each community, the primary objective is to identify a cohort of elder climate Liaisons who will provide personal insights into their experiences with extreme heat. The feedback from these liaisons will play a crucial role in shaping strategies and guiding the actions of the project team to effectively address the issue. This initiative aims to make a difference in the lives of elders and inspire similar endeavors across the state. 

Elder Climate Liaisons will receive $1000 in compensation for their time and efforts in this program. Spaces are limited, therefore, we highly recommend expressing your interest as soon as possible. To express interest please contact Abigail via email ashute@wayland.ma.us or via phone 508-358-4295. Elder Climate Liaisons must be aged 60 or older and live within one of the participating towns of Wayland, Weston, Ashland, Natick, or Framingham. April Update: There are still Elder Liaison positions available in all communities, please contact Abigail if you are interested.