South City OKs plan to expand senior resources

The city still needs to develop a multi-year initiative to expand programming even further. During a City Council meeting Oct. 22, Karen Cunningham, former Brisbane mayor and associate community organizer at Center for Age Friendly Excellence, said the plan comprises several key pillars, such as housing, employment, transportation and social inclusion. 

One of the suggestions would be developing a subcommittee to “discuss more comfortable seating and provide age-friendly furniture,” such as benches, according to the presentation, as well as expanding education and workshops on the available resources for housing and transit options. 

“Once a person doesn't drive anymore, that can lead to loneliness for some people because of a lack of interaction,” Councilmember Mark Nagales said. 

South San Francisco residents can use GOT Wheels, a program run by Peninsula Family Service, that offers rides to seniors for $5, though limited spots remain due to its popularity. 

Cunningham said while cities can increase education efforts, there simply needs to be more funding and expansion of transit services. 

“Everybody complains about transportation. We need to improve that,” Cunningham said during the council meeting. “I think we should be asking for more money for this program because it is so popular. If we can put pressure on our Board of Supervisors for more money for these programs, I think that is the way to go.”

According to federal data, seniors are the fastest-growing homeless population, and in California, 2024 data suggests that individuals ages 50 and above make up 40% of the homeless population. 

“That issue goes hand in hand with transportation because even if you are living in a home, you may not be able to move elsewhere,” Councilmember James Coleman said, “and what if you’re stuck in that home that doesn't have access to transportation?”