County allocates federal funds for West Valley older adults and families
SAN JOSE – A plan was approved to use federal funds for ongoing support for public service programs serving adults, older adults, and families in the West Valley by the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors.
“Federal grant funding supports a variety of services in our West Valley communities,” said Santa Clara County Supervisor Joe Simitian, who represents the Fifth District which includes much of the West Valley. “With this funding, more households at risk of eviction or utility cutoffs will be able to access emergency financial assistance to stay in their homes and keep the lights on. More seniors will be able to access adult day care programs, where they can socialize and receive free legal services to help them live safely and independently. And more families can easily be connected to case management support and crucial resources.”
The funding was approved as part of the County’s Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Annual Action Plan for use of federal funds from the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnership Act programs, which the County administers on behalf of several local jurisdictions. The County’s CDBG and HOME funding available during Fiscal Year 2024-2025 is estimated to be approximately $4 million.
A significant portion of the funds will be allocated for affordable housing development and preservation, emergency shelter, and transitional housing, as well as fair housing outreach and home repair modifications for low-income homeowners across the County.
Public service programs in the West Valley identified for support include:
- Live Oak Adult Day Services in Los Gatos provides structured socialization and cognitive stimulation to seniors, and respite for their caregivers, to help seniors stay in the family home.
- Senior Adults Legal Assistance (SALA) offers free legal assistance in matters that impact older adults.
- West Valley Community Services’ Community Access to Resources and Education (CARE) provides safety net services for low-income households and seniors in Cupertino, Saratoga, Los Gatos, and West San Jose. Services include emergency financial assistance for rent and utility, access to food and nutrition, case management connecting individuals to public benefits, and resources to address needs of the clients.
“This funding allows local organizations that are most familiar with the needs of local residents to provide services that best support those needs,” said Simitian.
Following the Board’s approval, the Action Plan will be submitted to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for final approval and allocation of funds.