Senior meal programs are facing significant challenges as various local governments, including the City of Los Angeles, begin downsizing due to financial shortages. Some seniors are expressing concerns that reductions in these meal provision programs could jeopardize their well-being.
The budget for the LA City Department of Aging, as outlined in the 2024-2025 fiscal plan signed by Mayor Karen Bass on June 5, is approximately $11.5 million. This represents a decrease of $2.45 million (17%) from the previous year.
Following the budget announcement, criticisms have arisen that program directly impacting seniors’ lives have been undervalued compared to other city issues. For instance, LA has allocated $3 million to MacArthur Park near Koreatown for drug rehabilitation and treatment.
Due to budget cuts, the Department of Aging will terminate the “Rapid Response Senior Meal Program (RRSMP)” starting in August. This decision will affect around 2,000 registered seniors, as warned by the department.
Maria Altamira, a resident who attended last month’s LA City Council meeting, stated, “This program has been a lifeline for many seniors who have difficulty moving,” and urged that funding be expanded to keep the program running beyond August.
“The financial shortages of the city government are impacting all departments,” said Kwan-il Park, Executive Director of the Korean Senior & Community Center. “However, issues related to food for seniors and low-income groups must be thoroughly protected.”
The Senior Center has been impacted by budget cuts, leading to a change in the free lunch menu from Korean food to more affordable alternatives. Although the number of free lunch boxes distributed remains the same, the center regrets having to replace quality Korean meals with other options.
In response to the controversy over the Department of Aging’s budget cuts, city council members are taking action. Councilmember Heather Hutt (District 10) has proposed a motion requesting the Department of Aging and the City Administrative Officer (CAO) to submit a report to the City Council regarding the termination of the RRSMP.
On July 2, the District 10 office informed the Korea Daily, “Over 18% of seniors currently live in poverty, and this number continues to rise. This is why we are creating legislation to reinstate the terminated programs and secure funding.”
The LA Times recently reported that the California Food Assistance Program (CFAP) for individuals over 55 has been delayed, affecting tens of thousands.
Originally, the state government planned to expand food benefits to eligible residents over 55, regardless of status, starting October 1, 2025. However, due to budget negotiation delays, this program has been postponed by two years. As a result, over 100,000 undocumented individuals over 55 will face food insecurity risks until 2027, according to the report.
BY SUAH JANG, YOUNGNAM KIM [jang.suah@koreadaily.com]
