Spreading Joy: Project CARE 2023 Brings Holiday Cheer to Low-Income Older Adults in Los Angeles

Project CARE (Caring Actions Responding to Elders) is an annual holiday campaign aimed at uplifting low-income older adults in Los Angeles. During the 2023 holiday season, the Aging & Disabilities Department (AD), in collaboration with the City of Los Angeles’ Department on Aging and the Los Angeles Foundation on Aging, took part in this heartwarming campaign that reaches those most in need. 

Through the Supportive Services Program (SSP) and Integrated Care Management (ICM) service providers, AD successfully identified older adults facing significant challenges, especially those who were homebound, disabled, or isolated. With over two hundred individuals identified across Los Angeles County, the focus was on providing personalized support tailored to their specific needs. 

Participants were invited to specify the items they wished for, ranging from essentials like gift cards, clothing, and shoes to items promoting comfort and wellbeing such as blankets, walkers, small kitchen appliances, art supplies, and even pet food. AD, in partnership with the City of Los Angeles and the Los Angeles Foundation on Aging, spared no effort in ensuring these requests were fulfilled with care and consideration. 

The highlight of the initiative was the personal touch provided by AD’s staff, who hand-delivered these curated gift packages, ensuring they arrived in time to spread warmth and joy during the festive season. This thoughtful distribution not only met practical needs but also served as a reminder to recipients that they are valued and remembered during the holidays. 

Project CARE 2023 stands as a testament to the power of community collaboration and compassion, enriching the lives of older adults in Los Angeles and spreading the spirit of generosity throughout our county.