Project CARE 2024: A Season of Giving Brings Comfort and Joy to Older Adults Across Los Angeles

The holiday season in Los Angeles was brighter than ever this year thanks to Project CARE (Caring Actions Responding to Elders), the annual initiative led by the Los Angeles Foundation on Aging (LAFA), in collaboration with the City and County combined Charitable Giving Campaigns,  the City of Los Angeles Department of Aging and the Los Angeles County Aging & Disabilities Department (AD). Project CARE is aimed at supporting low-income older adults. This heartfelt campaign provides essential gifts and personalized items to those who often face isolation and need extra support during the holidays.

Now in its 19th year, Project CARE 2024 continued its mission of spreading holiday cheer by providing crucial assistance to older Angelenos through a network of community partners and programs.

The Aging & Disabilities Department, in collaboration with its 14 community and senior centers, the Adult Protective Services (APS) program, the Supportive Services Program (SSP), and Integrated Community Services (ICS) partner, worked diligently to identify seniors who would benefit most from the program.

This year, over 80 older adults received gifts delivered directly to their homes by department staff, while another 140 seniors enjoyed the experience of receiving their gifts at their local community and senior center. From cozy blankets to personal hygiene items, food staples to warm clothing, participants were able to request items that would help improve their quality of life and make the holidays a little brighter. Gifts for the program were generously provided by the Los Angeles Foundation on Aging (givelafa.org).

The beauty of Project CARE lies not just in the practical help it provides but also in the emotional impact it has on recipients. Many participants shared that receiving gifts, tailored to their specific needs, made them feel seen and valued in a way that lifted their spirits during what can sometimes be a challenging time of year.

One participant, expressed their gratitude for their local center:  “I love coming to the Potrero Heights Community & Senior Center throughout the year. I feel welcomed; it is my second home. The holidays are lonely for me, but I know there is always someone to greet me here.”

Irene Hildago from the East Los Angeles Service Center added: “I don’t have words to thank you and the staff for the wonderful things you did for us. Giving us all the wonderful things we needed for Christmas. It makes us feel like someone really cares for us. Thank you for all the love and joy you give us in this center.”

Cynthia Ramirez who frequents the Centro Maravilla Service Center shared how meaningful it was to participate in the program: “I was happy and grateful for the weighted blanket I received. It can keep me extra warm during these cold days and nights. This is a wonderful project that I hope can continue and bless many more seniors.”

Richard J. who received his gift at home, added: “It feels so great people are thinking of me. God bless. No one in our family can work right now; it is a blessing you came and helped us out.”

Thanks to the generosity of donors and the dedicated efforts of staff and community partners, Project CARE 2024 demonstrated the true spirit of the season. It was a celebration of collective compassion—showing that even the smallest gesture of kindness can have a profound impact on someone’s life.

As the department wraps up another successful holiday campaign, it looks forward to continuing its mission to support and uplift older adults throughout Los Angeles County, making each year brighter and more meaningful for those who need it most.