Nonprofit Brings Holiday Joy to Homeless Seniors

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A Holiday of Community and Connection

Serving Seniors, a local nonprofit organization, opened its doors to low-income and homeless older adults on Christmas Day, offering a warm meal and a sense of community. This event, held at the Gary and Mary West Senior Wellness Center, was more than just a meal—it was a celebration of togetherness for seniors who often feel isolated.

The organization provides county-wide services such as meals, housing, health and social services, and learning opportunities for adults aged 60 and up. For many of these individuals, Serving Seniors is more than just an organization; it's a second home and a source of support. According to Melinda Forstey, President and CEO of Serving Seniors, approximately 300 seniors and 40 volunteers attended the event this year.

“For many of our seniors, they live alone and don’t have family support,” Forstey said. “We’ve really become their family. This is a way for folks to come see their friends and celebrate Christmas as a community.”

Older adults are particularly vulnerable to social isolation, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Low-income seniors face even greater challenges, often struggling with both financial instability and loneliness. In San Diego, the situation is especially dire, as the city has seen a growing number of older adults experiencing homelessness. San Diego is also one of the most expensive cities in the United States, making it increasingly difficult for seniors to afford stable housing.

Forstey explained that many of the seniors served by the organization live on less than $10 per day. “Many older adults are currently experiencing homelessness, so we do help seniors get off the streets and into housing,” she said. “Often, people lose their housing because rent is too high. Providing a roof over their head means so much to the older adults we serve.”

Forstey believes that Christmas is a time for family and community, and Serving Seniors aims to provide exactly that. She added that these events offer seniors a chance to reconnect with old friends or make new ones.

John Conroy, a pianist and client of Serving Seniors, played music for those attending the event. He shared that holiday music brings joy to everyone. Conroy, who used to live in a home in Normal Heights before being kicked out due to probation reasons, described his time on the streets as “very scary.” He spent time in shelters where he felt unsafe and uncertain. He also suffered a car accident that required three months of recovery.

Now, Conroy feels comfortable spending Christmas in a home. In 2023, he was placed in transitional housing through Serving Seniors, where he now feels at home. “I love it,” he said. “It’s family, we’re all family, and I’m glad to be here for all of today on this wonderful Merry Christmas.”

Rosalinda Flores, another client of Serving Seniors, expressed her gratitude for the kindness shown by volunteers and staff. She has been receiving support from the organization for over 10 years. She and her husband were homeless until Serving Seniors helped them move into an apartment 13 years ago.

Flores said the community is supportive and helps combat loneliness. She enjoys visiting events and playing bingo. Last week, she even won a $10 dollar gift certificate. “We come over here and I play bingo and win little stuff,” she said. “It makes me happy.”

Through programs like these, Serving Seniors continues to make a difference in the lives of seniors across San Diego. By providing meals, housing, and a sense of community, the organization ensures that no one has to face the holidays alone.