SACRAMENTO–Governor Gavin Newsom has announced a series of initiatives to support vulnerable older Californians who are isolating at home during California’s stay at home order.
The state will launch the first-in-the nation meal delivery program, a partnership to make wellness check-in calls, and the expansion of Friendship Line California to help combat social isolation. These actions will support the approximately 1.2 million Californians over the age of 65 who live alone.
“The most important way for older Californians to stay safe is to stay at home,” said Governor Newsom. “These programs will provide older, vulnerable Californians with access to nutritious meals in the safety of their homes and the opportunity to connect with someone who can listen to their concerns and make sure their needs are met. We are all in this together and we will continue to support older Californians who are more at risk during this public health emergency.”
“Older adults are heroes for being the first Californians to stay at home and save lives. Howev
Restaurants Deliver: Home Meals for Seniors
The program will ensure vulnerable older Californians have consistent access to nutritious meals while staying safe at home. The Restaurants Deliver: Home Meals for Seniors program will enlist community restaurants to prepare meals that will be delivered to seniors who are isolating at home during California’s stay at home order. The program will also support local restaurant workers and owners who have lost business during the pandemic. The program will be administered by local authorities and will serve older seniors who are ineligible for other nutrition programs.
The administration will keep updated information on the COVID-19 website on which localities are participating.
Social Bridging Project
The Social Bridging Project will mobilize more than 1,000 callers to proactively reach out to seniors who are isolating at home. The project will combat social isolation through direct, one-on-one communication with older Californians, many living alone and isolated. Listos California is partnering with the California Department of Aging, United Airlines, Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT), and Sacramento State University to make calls to seniors. Callers will check on the individual’s well-being, connect them to resources, and connect with them on a personal level.
California is expanding Friendship Line California to support lonely and isolated seniors across the state. Friendship Line California is toll-free and available to provide emotional support. The California Department of Aging is partnering with the Institute on Aging to support this effort. Seniors can call the Friendship Line California at 1-888-670-1360.
