The San Francisco Commission has approved significant funding modifications to enhance nutrition services for older adults and individuals with disabilities, ensuring continued access to culturally responsive meals across the city. During a recent meeting, Tiffany Kearney, the lead nutritionist for the Department of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS), presented five grant modifications totaling $972,749, bringing the overall funding for these services to a revised total of $5,668,345.

The modifications primarily benefit two key providers: Russian American Community Services (RACS) and Self-Help for the Elderly. RACS will receive an additional $14,450 to support its congregate nutrition program, which focuses on serving the Russian community with culturally appropriate meals. This funding will allow RACS to provide 16,000 more meals through the end of the fiscal year without impacting its existing services for older adults.

Self-Help for the Elderly, which serves a diverse clientele including many from Asian communities, will see several enhancements. The organization will receive funding to address rising operational costs due to inflation, including a $145,431 increase for its home-delivered nutrition program and $38,149 for congregate services at the Geneva Community Center. Additionally, the CHAMPS program, which allows clients to dine at designated restaurants, will receive $59,034 to support a rate increase and $165,000 for 15,000 more meals.

The meeting highlighted a concerning trend: client contributions towards meal costs have significantly declined, with average contributions dropping from $1.11 per meal in fiscal year 2019 to just $0.28 in fiscal year 2022 for Self-Help's programs. This decline has prompted the need for increased funding to sustain these vital services.

Commissioners expressed their commitment to addressing food insecurity, particularly in underserved areas like District 10, which has been identified as a food desert. While there are no current CHAMPS sites in District 10, the DAAS is working to ensure resources are allocated effectively across the city to meet the highest needs.

The approved funding modifications are expected to bolster nutrition services, ensuring that vulnerable populations in San Francisco continue to receive the support they need. As the city navigates ongoing challenges, these enhancements reflect a proactive approach to maintaining essential services for its residents.