We all understand San Diego is an expensive place to live. Since 2019, San Diego rent has increased 41%, or $658 a month, for a one-bedroom apartment according to an August 2024 LendingTree study. Residents are feeling the economic heat.
Thousands of older adults already struggling financially are experiencing severe consequences, including the increasing threat of homelessness. At Serving Seniors we see this daily as low-income and homeless adults over age 55 take part in our meal programs and other services.
Our clients depend both on nonprofit organizations and public assistance programs like Medi-Cal to survive until they can file for Social Security. But it’s not enough.
Currently, federal poverty level guidelines created in the 1960s determine whether seniors are eligible for government assistance programs. Today in 2024, they have little relevance, especially in high-cost areas like San Diego. As a result, seniors living in poverty are shocked to learn they “make too much” income to quality for help.