1 Generation advocates for increased funding for elderly services in Los Angeles

During a recent budget hearing in Los Angeles, community advocates voiced urgent concerns regarding the proposed budget cuts that threaten vital services for older adults. The meeting, held on April 25, 2025, highlighted the growing crisis of homelessness among seniors, a demographic increasingly at risk due to fixed incomes and rising rents.

Donna Graves, representing the 1 Generation Center, emphasized that older adults are the fastest-growing group facing homelessness in Los Angeles. She urged city officials to prioritize resources for seniors who are currently homeless or at risk of losing their housing. Graves pointed out that existing city programs are not adequately addressing the needs of this vulnerable population.

Michelle Quiroga Diaz, also from 1 Generation, echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of dedicated resources for seniors to ensure they live with dignity and respect. She warned that reductions in funding, as proposed in the mayor's budget, could lead to increased isolation, health decline, and even neglect among older adults. Diaz called for the inclusion of aging and disability communities in budget discussions to better reflect their needs.

Kimberly Mendoza, a case management director at 1 Generation, spoke on behalf of homebound seniors who cannot advocate for themselves. She described the critical support services provided to these individuals, including home-delivered meals and wellness checks, which are essential for their well-being. Mendoza urged the city to take action, stating that neglecting seniors undermines the community's values.

Vanessa Barajas, another case manager, highlighted the real-life impact of budget cuts on seniors, sharing a poignant story of an 85-year-old woman who relies on 1 Generation for transportation and emergency support. Barajas argued that these services are lifelines, not luxuries, and cutting them would isolate many seniors who have contributed to society throughout their lives.

The meeting also addressed broader concerns about proposed layoffs and hiring freezes in critical departments, including the Department of Aging. Alejandra, a field-based case manager, warned that consolidating funds could obscure the specific needs of seniors, potentially jeopardizing essential services like fall prevention and case management.

As the city grapples with budgetary constraints, the voices of community advocates serve as a reminder of the urgent need to prioritize the well-being of older adults. The discussions from this meeting underscore the importance of ensuring that Los Angeles remains a city that values and supports its aging population, rather than treating them as an afterthought. The next steps will be crucial in determining how the city addresses these pressing issues and supports its most vulnerable residents.