Older Adult Resources

GREY BEARS - HEALTHY BAG PROGRAM

Fridays 9-11 AM 

Experience the nourishing support of the Grey Bears Healthy Bag Program. Each week, Santa Cruz County residents receive a bountiful grocery bag with fresh produce and wholesome staples.

https://greybears.org/online-membership-form/ | 831.479.1055

SECOND HARVEST FOOD DISTRIBUTION

Every 3rd Thursday of the Month 10-11 AM

This program’s mission is to inspire and support Santa Cruz County to provide nourishment for all community members. From fresh produce to canned goods and dry foods, this program strives to offer a diverse range of nutritious options to meet the needs of every individual and family.

831.722.7110

LIFT LINE COMMUNITY BRIDGES

This program provides thousands of door-to-door rides to seniors and people with disabilities across Santa Cruz County, allowing residents to maintain their independence. Their professional drivers offer door-to-door assistance from origin to destination. Escorts, personal care attendants, and a limited number of traveling companions are welcome. Contact the Watsonville Senior Center for weekly transportation to the center.

831.688.9663

PARA CRUZ

Para Cruz is dedicated to ensuring that people with disabilities have equal access to mass public transportation, mirroring the level of service available to the wider community. Their fleet comprises safe, clean, and modern vehicles, all designed to be fully accessible. Whether it’s for educational, business, medical appointments, or other destinations, Para Cruz connects individuals with the vital services and opportunities they need to thrive.

831.425.4664

MEALS ON WHEELS COMMUNITY BRIDGES

Reservation Required 60+ | Monday-Friday 11:30 AM-1 PM

A program that provides vital support to seniors aged 60 and older by delivering nutrient-based meals directly to their homes or providing on-site dining at various senior centers. By tailoring meals to meet specific nutritional needs, Meals on Wheels plays a crucial role in promoting the health and well-being of seniors.

https://communitybridges.org/meals-on-wheels-client-application/

Watsonville Dining Site: 831.724.2024 | For Home Delivery Contact: 831.464.3180

CENTRAL COAST ENERGY SERVICES

This program provides PG&E bill assistance through the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). The one-time per calendar year payment varies depending on income, household size, and funding. Households facing shut off (customer has received 15-day or 48-hour notice) may receive immediate help at emergency service sites centrally located in San Mateo, Santa Cruz, and Monterey counties.

888.728.3637

SENIOR NETWORK SERVICES

Drop-in hours at the Watsonville Senior Center | Tuesdays & Thursdays 9 AM-12 PM

Senior Network Services helps link Older Adults with a wealth of services and resources throughout Santa Cruz County, ensuring that every senior has the support they need to live life to the fullest. Whether it’s accessing healthcare counseling, housing support, or care management, their network is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for Older Adults. Call to make an appointment.

Information & Assistance 831.200.3405 | Free Medicare Counseling 831.462.5510

PROJECT SCOUT

Project SCOUT is a beacon of support for the Santa Cruz County community, offering free tax assistance to seniors, individuals with disabilities, low-income families, and others in need. Beyond tax preparation, they provide invaluable guidance on general tax inquiries and extend their care to seniors by helping them access the CalFresh program. By appointment only.

projectscoutoffice@gmail.com | 831.724.2606 

FAMILY SERVICES AGENCY OF THE CENTRAL COAST

Monday-Wednesday 9 AM-1 PM

Discover the power of peer counseling and its ability to foster healthy families and communities. By sharing experiences and offering unwavering support, peer counselors empower individuals to overcome obstacles and build resilience.

831.728.9009

SENIOR CITIZENS LEGAL SERVICES

Tuesdays 1-4 PM

This program is dedicated to advocating for the rights of seniors and addressing the legal needs of the senior community in Santa Cruz County. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by older adults, the program is designed to provide tailored legal support and guidance. Call to make an appointment.

831.426.8824

LA MANZANA COMMUNITY BRIDGES

If you need assistance with enrolling in public benefits, this program provides guidance and support throughout the enrollment process for various public programs. Their team is dedicated to helping you navigate the process with ease. (CalFresh, Unemployment, MediCAl/MediCare. CoveredCA)

831.724.2997

SALUD PARA LA GENTE COMMUNITY RESOURCES

If you need assistance with enrolling in public benefits, this program provides guidance and support throughout the enrollment process for various public programs. Their team is dedicated to helping you navigate the process with ease (CalFresh, Unemployment, MediCal/MediCare, CoveredCA), HEAP application and more.

831.763.3431

COMMUNITY ACTION BOARD

If you need rental assistance or are seeking advocacy and resources, this team is ready to support you. They provide guidance, advocacy, and access to essential resources to help navigate through rental challenges with confidence.

831.763.2147

ELDER DAY COMMUNITY BRIDGES

Elder Day Adult Healthcare is dedicated to empowering seniors with the support they need to live independently and with dignity. Their community-centered approach provides a range of health care services, respite, and companionship, ensuring that older adults thrive in a nurturing environment.

https://communitybridges.org/elderday-application/ | 831.458.3481

ALZHEIMER'S ASSOCIATION

The Alzheimer’s Association leads the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. The association is committed to providing all communities with resources and education.

24/7 Help Line 800.272.3900