Community organizations push for Measure A to help seniors experiencing homelessness

Anthony White III, 67, became homeless after his mother, with whom he lived, passed away and he was hospitalized. 

With the help of the nonprofit organization People Assisting the Homeless (PATH), he now has a home. 

White is one of more than 18,000 adults aged 55 and older who have recently or are now experiencing homelessness in Los Angeles County, making them the fastest-growing segment of the homeless population. 

“Last year the number of people sleeping outside dropped by 5% in Los Angeles County and 10% in the City of Los Angeles. That means that thousands of people are no longer suffering alone in the heat and elements, but can rest indoors and work with trained professionals to create their next chapter,” said Jennifer Hark Dietz, CEO of PATH, during a press conference yesterday. “All of this is thanks to the investment voters here in Los Angeles County have made. None of this would be possible without that support. But we know there is so much more to do.”

These individuals, many of whom have spent years in the workforce, now find themselves unable to cover the rising costs of housing, basic living expenses and unexpected medical needs on their limited fixed incomes.

Bennie Tinson, executive director of the Licensed Adult Residential Care Association which represents so-called board and care facilities, spoke to the specific physical and mental health needs some older adults require, making their search for housing more challenging.

“As we age, we require more specific care due to illness or disabilities. Those living on the streets are no exception,” stated Tinson. “Not only must we provide them housing, but we must also help to ensure that they are housed in situations that support them and consider their needs. The over 400 board and care facilities do just that. However, without ongoing funding and continued investments, these facilities will not be able to meet the growing demands. We can’t let that happen.”

A key focus of the press conference was Measure A, a November general election ballot initiative aimed at securing the resources needed to expand services and prevent more people – including older adults - from falling into homelessness. Measure A would create more affordable housing, expand access to mental health and addiction treatment and provide emergency funding to keep people in their homes.

“Measure A is essential for us to keep making progress,” explained Mario Galeano, Vice President of Development for Union Station Homeless Services. “It will secure the funding we need to build affordable housing, offer mental health care, addiction services and prevent more people – including seniors - from ending up on the streets. This is how we ensure the work we’ve started continues. Without Measure A, homelessness in L.A. County could increase by 25%, and more than 50,000 people who are currently housed will be at risk of returning to the streets. This is not a risk we can afford to take.”

“I know there are still so many people in shelters and on sidewalks all across Los Angeles,” said White. “I want everyone to have the same help I got, and make it home just like I did. I pray for my neighbors every day. I’m asking every voter in Los Angeles to vote Yes on Measure A.”

Hark Dietz concluded the press conference by urging voters to support Measure A, saying: “As you’ve  heard, there is a lot being done to help our older adults who are experiencing homelessness. But the numbers don’t lie. There is much more that needs to be done. And we can do it. We just need voter support by voting Yes on Measure A.”