SAN DIEGO (KGTV) - With the directive for California residents 65 and older to stay in “self-isolation” one group is urging people to help senior citizens.
Shifra Baltinester has run Social Bridge for two years, an organization that connects volunteers with senior citizens.
Previously, their main goal was to provide some social interaction for seniors who don’t have local family members or who have mobility issues.
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But now, she says, their focus has shifted to fill a need created by the new “self-isolation” policy implemented Sunday by Gov. Gavin Newsom.
"They cannot go to the store. Right now we are focusing on the errands," she said.
Making issues worse, many resources for seniors have closed. The City of San Diego has closed all of its senior and adult centers until at least April 5.
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Baltinester says people don’t need to sign up with her group to help out. She is encouraging people to take initiative on their own and visit their 65+ neighbors to see if they need anything, making sure to keep a safe distance to prevent any unintentional spread of the coronavirus.
For people who want to help, but don’t know where to start, she has set up a discussion on Facebook and another group on Nextdoor to help people coordinate.
Resources for San Diego's seniors
Food:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)/Food Stamps
- Home-delivered meal services
- Emergency food resources
- Grocery stores opening early for seniors & immuno-compromised individuals
Health care:
- Contact your healthcare provider if you think you have COVID-19 symptoms
- Prescription Delivery Services
Transportation:
Fitness: