State Representatives Darby, Martin Secure Funding for Senior Citizen Centers

NASHVILLE — State Rep. Tandy Darby, R-Greenfield, and State Representative Brock Martin, R-Huntingdon each helped secure funding for senior citizen centers in their districts.

Darby announced senior centers in Carroll, Weakley and Henry counties will receive a total of $91,000 in state grants to expand programming, improve facilities and support wellness and social activities for older adults.

The grants, administered by the Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging (DDA), are part of $5 million awarded to 125 centers statewide through a competitive program.

Local funding recipients include:

• Paris Henry County Senior Citizens Center Association: $50,000
• Martin Gateway Center: $10,000
• Dresden Senior Citizens Center: $10,000
• Sharon Senior Center: $10,000
• Carroll County Office on Aging: $11,000

“These senior centers make a real difference in the lives of older adults,” Darby said. “I’m proud to support this investment that will help them improve facilities, expand programming and continue serving as a resource for our communities.”

Representative Martin said, “This investment ensures our senior centers can continue providing vital services in safe, welcoming environments,” Martin said. “Supporting older adults in our communities is not just a priority, it’s a responsibility.”

Martin announced senior centers in Carroll, Henderson and Gibson counties will receive a combined $65,000 in state grants to improve facilities and expand services for older adults.

Local funding recipients include:

• Gibson County Office on Aging / Bradford Senior Center: $29,000
• Milan Senior Citizen Center: $14,000
• Carroll County Office on Aging: $11,000
• Henderson County Senior Center: $11,000

The funding is part of a $42.5 million allocation approved by the Tennessee General Assembly in the 2025–26 state budget to support emergency and community services.

Centers receive between $10,000 and $50,000 to strengthen local offerings. Grants may be used for building improvements, equipment, marketing, activities and other operational costs, excluding staff salaries.