Riverside council unanimously approves $100,000 to aid seniors and residents affected by federal shutdown

Riverside City Council on Monday voted unanimously to relocate $100,000 to expand emergency assistance for older residents and households affected by a federal government shutdown.

The funding reallocation, presented by Michelle Debins of Human and Housing Services and detailed by Tracy Saro, assistant to the city manager, is intended to expand supplemental nutrition and emergency food distribution programs and to provide short-term utility relief. Debins told the council the city’s proposal would help as many as 400 residents “depending on housing” and asked the council to authorize the relocation to allow the Salvation Army and city partners to distribute aid quickly.

The funding will support existing programs described by staff: Share, a utility credit that can cover up to $250 in a disconnection event; a 12-month repayment agreement for customers who have fallen behind; and a ‘‘promise to pay’’ one‑time assistance for qualifying residents. Saro said staff will use partner organizations to verify residency and eligibility before funds are distributed.

Council members emphasized speed and oversight. In a roll-call voice vote recorded by district, councilmembers indicated “yes” across the board and the motion passed unanimously. Councilmember comments noted efforts to avoid reducing existing senior services and that the city would seek to ensure verification and fraud-prevention processes through partner agencies.

Next steps: staff will finalize agreements with the Salvation Army and return to the council with implementation details and any required administrative approvals.