Isolation, immobility and poverty are three of the major problem areas facing
this nation's elderly, forcing them to live their "golden years" trapped, alone
and without the options which only money can afford.
There are 33,000 elderly people living in Santa Cruz County. Many are living on
low income levels. More than 10% are living on incomes below poverty level. A
majority of the remaining number live on low incomes, fixed incomes or are
"house poor". In these times of inflation and rising costs, many older people
feel trapped, helpless and alone. California Grey Bears was organized to help
eliminate some of these problems.
Grey Bears, founded in 1974, is a grass roots, non-profit organization of senior
citizens over 55, dedicated to the principal of self-help. It relies almost
entirely, on volunteers for its operation.
Its members work together to make
their lives better and to feel a sense of usefulness and community with their
peers.
Grey Bears is funded by both the public and the private sectors. This year we
expect to provide 55% of our budget through non-governmental means. Last year we
distributed almost 2 million pounds of food at a cost of less than 10 cents per
lb.
The value of the program is not food alone. The social aspects of community, the
feeling of being needed and contributing, the improvement of self confidence and
self-worth are immeasurable byproducts of this program. In these increasingly
complex times, the Brown Bag concept, which bring benefits to both the recipient
and donor, takes on even greater importance. Not only does it address itself to
the concept of recycling, it provides opportunity to maximize both material and
human potential. For the senior population, it stretches their fixed income
dollar and provides an opportunity for involvement and activity.
