From:
To: Diana Rich; Stephen Zollman; Neysa Hinton; Sandra Maurer; Jill McLewis; City Council; Don Schwartz; Mary Gourley
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Immediate Attention Required: Protecting Funding for Sebastopol Area Senior Center Date: Thursday, March 7, 2024 11:44:59 AM
Dear City Council Members:
It is my strong belief — a sentiment I trust you share as esteemed members — that our Senior Center is not just a facility, but the heartbeat of our community. With over 30% of Sebastopol's population being over the age of 60, it's clear how pivotal the center is to so many lives.
Any reduction in funding threatens to critically undermine the core services the Senior Center provides to the city's elder residents. Services that are not simply beneficial but were crucial enough that last year alone we witnessed:
More than 21,000 visits to the Center
The provision of over 6,000 meals at a reduced cost via The Harvest Café About 5,700 seniors staying active and improving their health through fitness and balance classes
In excess of 2,000 instances where group support was given, playing an important role in sustaining mental health
Over 3,000 transportation services facilitated by the center's devoted volunteers for critical healthcare appointments
These figures aren't just numbers; they represent lifelines and critical support systems for our aging neighbors. Services offered significantly enhance the health, quality and fulfillment of life for our aging population.
I stand in heartfelt solidarity with the community in emphasizing the necessity of preserving funding for our Senior Center.
Thank you for your consideration in this important matter.
Sincerely yours,
--
Darris. B. Nelson