The recent budget hearings in Los Angeles highlighted urgent concerns for the city’s elderly population, as advocates called for increased funding for essential services. Representatives from One Generation, a local advocacy group, passionately urged city officials to prioritize programs that support seniors facing homelessness and financial instability.

Michelle Quiroga Díaz, a representative from One Generation, emphasized the critical need for the city to invest in services that ensure seniors can live with dignity. She pointed out that many elderly residents are at risk of losing their homes due to fixed incomes and rising rents. Quiroga Díaz called for the budget committee to reevaluate funding for programs that directly impact the lives of older adults, stressing that these individuals deserve more than sympathy—they need actionable support.

Kimberly Mendoza, also from One Generation, echoed these sentiments, sharing that many seniors rely on the organization for vital services such as food assistance and transportation to medical appointments. She highlighted the isolation many elderly individuals face and the importance of maintaining connections to the community. Mendoza urged city leaders to recognize the contributions of seniors who helped build the city and to take meaningful action to support them.

Vanessa Barajas, another program manager at One Generation, shared her personal experience as an 85-year-old resident who depends on the organization for daily needs. She implored the budget committee to increase funding, stating that cuts to these services would severely impact the quality of life for thousands of seniors in the area.

The meeting also touched on broader issues, including environmental concerns and public safety initiatives. Alex Linds, a city planning associate, advocated for preserving essential environmental positions to address climate change, while Councilmember Gold Free Plata discussed the importance of maintaining funding for crisis response programs that divert calls from police to trained mental health professionals.

As the city prepares its budget, the voices of advocates for the elderly serve as a reminder of the pressing need for comprehensive support systems that address the unique challenges faced by Los Angeles' aging population. The outcomes of these hearings will play a crucial role in shaping the future of services that many seniors rely on for their well-being.