Helps agency staff to recruit and train volunteers who will provide door-to-door transportation and social interaction for local low-income seniors and adults with disabilities.
With an aging population, Santa Barbara County faces a dilemma. Most seniors – 90% -- wish to stay in their homes. However, one in three has cognitive or physical disabilities that create barriers to their independence, preventing them from getting to medical appointments, the grocery store, or a senior center to meet friends. Adults with mild disabilities often face the same challenges.
Community Partners in Caring, established in 1997 in Santa Maria, matches trained volunteer drivers with seniors aging in place and individuals with disabilities to provide free rides, “friendly visits,” and referrals to support agencies. Success in the North County led to an expansion to South County in early 2025, with about 40 local volunteers in the new hub serving 300 clients. The grant will help expand this innovative program to serve an additional 100 low-income clients in South County.
