Economic Security Action Team
As the cost of living in Sonoma County continues to increase, many people's ability to afford basic needs decreases. Housing, food, and transportation are the most cited affordability challenges. In the 2023 survey administered by the AAA, 57% of the older adult respondents cited concerns about having enough money to meet daily expenses within the past year.
For many older adults and people with disabilities in Sonoma County who must seek employment to afford basic needs, it is difficult to find and secure suitable employment. This causes many to worry. Others have no choice but to forgo employment to qualify for Medi-Cal, or spend down their savings to qualify for other benefits that help obtain basic needs.
Economic Security Goal: Ensure basic needs are affordable and attainable for older adults and people with disabilities.
Strategies:
- Advocate at the local, state, and federal levels for streamlined processes and increased access of CalFresh (SNAP) and other nutrition benefits.
- Expand financial assistance to help older adults with medical bills, utility bills, and other out-of-pocket expenses through increased funding and eligibility for benefits.
- Increase funding and awareness of education and legal services for financial abuse cases.
- Offer and encourage volunteer, part-time, and flexible employment opportunities for older adults.