Seniors head to Sacramento for 2019 Senior Rally

On Monday evening, May 6, 2019 over 40 excited seniors waited patiently in the cold for their bus to arrive. Seniors boarded at midnight for a 7-hour journey to Sacramento. These determined seniors in their 60’s, 70’s and 80’s, were on a mission to join over 400 other seniors at the capital to encourage legislators and policymakers to make senior issues a priority.

At the Rally the seniors heard legislators support senior concerns, give legislative updates and a Senior Issues Forum panel addressed the importance of the Master Plan on Aging.

After lunch, seniors entered the Capitol to meet with policy makers, hear presentations and advocate for caregivers and programs to improve services for seniors.

Seniors represented Rancho Cucamonga, Ontario, Bloomington, Colton, Fontana, San Bernardino, Joshua Tree and Rialto. They raised funds needed for bus transportation and reached out to community and elected officials.  Congresswoman Norma Torres, Congressman Pete Aguilar, Assemblymember Eloise Reyes, Assemblymember Freddie Rodrigues, Assemblymember Jose Medina, Ca. Commissioner Cheryl Brown, Rialto Democratic Club, Chicano Latino Caucus, Albert Calderon B.R.E. and the City of Rialto responded.

Rialto Kiwanis club members sponsored 4 seniors and the San Bernardino (DAAS) Department of Aging and Adult Services’ individual employees hosted a fundraising contest.  Because of their efforts, the seniors were treated to hot coffee and a tasty meal returning home. Seniors returned safely home and motivated to getting more involved in their local communities. IHelpIE, Senior Advocacy Director Maricela Soliz-Ferguson hosted the event and is extremely grateful for the Call-to Help response.

If you would like more information, or to donate directly to the 2020 Transportation account and help sponsor a wonderful deserving senior next year, please call or text Brenda at 909-648-2784 or ihelpseniors2@gmail.com.