For some of our communities’ most vulnerable members, there is hope. This holiday season, people without family or in challenging circumstances can still find happiness and solace because of two groups.
AVIVA’S DROP-IN CENTER FOR YOUTH UPLIFT
Amber Rivas, President & CEO of Aviva’s Family and Children’s Services, got the idea from an abandoned school. What if it continued to help young people, but in a different way? Its infrastructure was ideal for their needs, including rooms that naturally transformed into a computer lab and art center, a lounge and kitchen stocked with food and snacks, a laundry room and private shower, and more. It was located in the center of Hollywood, which is where the majority of homeless youth in Los Angeles reside. The most vulnerable young people are now supported by this refurbished area, which provides a safe haven from the streets where they can navigate difficult situations and have an opportunity to succeed. Visit Aviva.org/programs/lifting-youth-up-drop-in-center to find out more about the drop-in center and Aviva’s services.
AIDING SENIORS
Supported by the California Department of Aging
The California Department of Aging is committed to assisting families in navigating the needs and desires of aging family members as well as the discussion of aging. The most crucial thing anyone can do is to initiate a dialogue with their elderly loved ones in order to develop a strategy that will satisfy their wants and preferences in the future. You may discover conversation starters and more information to assist families in navigating the process and locating assistance in their area at aging.ca.gov.
As the name suggests, the SmileMakers program makes people happy throughout the holidays, whether they are giving or receiving gifts. Since 1987, SmileMakers has partnered with the Council on AgingLTC Ombudsment to give thousands of long-term care residents personally wrapped gifts that they might otherwise forget. From 50 gift-givers to thousands, the initiative has expanded rapidly to suit the needs of the community, and its success is undoubtedly measured in smiles and thankfulness as well as in numbers. Visit SmileMakers – Council on Aging – Southern California – COASC to find out how to participate in the initiative.
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