Senior Nutrition Program

Senior Nutrition Program Annual Report 2014-15

Table of Contents

Letter from the Director

Senior Nutrition Program

At-A-Glance

Partnerships

Program Summary

Target Population

Congregate Meals

Program Overview

Participant Profile

Meal Sites by District

Statistics

Demographics

Meals on Wheels

Program Overview

Participant Profile

Statistics

Demographics

3

4

5

8

9

10

11

12

15

16

19

21

22

22

Program Costs

Program Expenditures

Older Americans Act of 1965

Mobility Management

Program Overview

Statistics and Program Cost

Measure A Senior Transportation

Program Overview

Program Cost and Next Steps

SNP Going Forward

25

27

28

29

30

31

32

Cover Image: Strawberries and Cantaloupe at Northside, Photo by Elizabeth Tae

4

Letter from the Director

The growth in the number and proportion of older adults is unprecedented in the history of the United

States due to longer life spans and aging baby boomers. Since January 1, 2011 and every day for the next

20 years, roughly 10,000 Americans will celebrate their 65th birthdays. In 2030, when the last baby

boomers reach that magic age, the demographic landscape of our nation will have changed significantly.

One of every five people in the United States, or about 72 million people, will be an older adult. As more

Americans reach the age of 65, society is increasingly challenged to help them grow older with dignity and

comfort.

Good health, among other things, includes exercise, mental well-being, spiritual growth, family, friends,

hobbies and laughter. It also includes prevention and early detection. Nutritional improvement is a modi-

fiable behavior that can allow people to age in their own home, prolong independence, reduce medical

care utilization, lessen premature institutionalization and increase the quality of life of this population that

is growing every year. More than any other aspect of good health, improving nutritional intake is within

the ability of local governments.

The Senior Nutrition Program has been a well-regarded, stable safety-net program for the seniors in our

community since 1974. Through the Congregate Meals Program, seniors have access to healthy, nutri-

tious meals and are also provided the opportunity to socialize, take classes and access other services.

Through the Meals on Wheels Program, homebound seniors can receive nutritious meals and grocery

items delivered weekly to their home.

Thanks to the hard work and dedication of our community partners, the Senior Nutrition Program pro-

vided more meals this year than ever before. Seniors were empowered to help improve the quality and

diversity of menu items. The registration process was streamlined to better serve the meal sites. Most

importantly, this program provided the opportunity to positively transform the mental and physical well-

being of seniors throughout the County.

James Ramoni, Director

Department of Aging and Adult Services

5

Served a combined total of 1,306,766 meals to 14,679 unduplicated participants.

Provided an estimated total of 318,746 one-way rides to seniors with transportation barriers through a

collaboration with Outreach & Escort, Inc.

Entered over 5,200 registration forms for congregate meal participants.

Updated over 10,000 Nutrition Risk forms as mandated to receive federal funding.

Developed and delivered a quarterly newsletter providing facts and fun to Meals on Wheels seniors.

Conducted 124 nutrition and health education presentations at the congregate sites in collabora-

tion with the Public Health Department.

Supported 172 outreach events, either attending or providing brochures and information to different

organizations.

Performed 378 program monitoring and evaluation site visits.

Reviewed and approved 82 sets of menus.

Processed 485 invoices from vendors.

Performed 13 fiscal audits to ensure prudent use of public dollars.

Conducted 11 on-site fiscal staff trainings.

Welcoming New Staff

Three new staff members joined SNP this year. Our new Account-

ant Assistant, Lilia Roxas, comes to us from the private sector and

handles accounts payable, accounts receivable, and purchasing.

Brandon Pham joined us from another Social Services Agency pro-

gram as an Analyst and works on contract development and moni-

toring, legislative files, budgets, data reporting, scanners and system

issues and site administrative support. A new Office Specialist III

position was added to the program for FY 2015-2016. Marilyn Pi-

card was transferred on July 1, 2015 from Child Support Services to

fill the position and works on all aspects of the site registration pro-

cess. Welcome Lilia, Brandon and Marilyn!


At– A-Glance

La Comida, Photo by Elizabeth Tae

Age is a question of mind over matter. If you don't mind, it

doesn't matter. –Satchel Paige

6


Volunteers

Volunteers are critical to the operation of the Senior Nutrition Program. They are a tremendous resource

that builds service capacity to the congregate meal sites. Volunteers are recruited by each individual site

and work in registration, meal preparation and meal service. The Senior Nutrition Program is grateful for

their loyalty and dedication. Thank you to all the dedicated volunteers!

Congregate Meal Site Partners

We have a strong partnership with community-based organizations, faith-based organizations and munici-

palities to provide lunch-time meals. Every entity contributes financially with many of them contributing

more than the required match. Our congregate meal partners include:

Schools, Scouts and Faith-Based Youth Groups

Youth of all ages used their minds and artistic talents to create placemats and greeting cards for Valentine’s

Day and the holiday season. These works of art were distributed to Meals on Wheels participants with

their food deliveries.

Partnerships

7


Partnerships

San Jose State University Work Study Program

The Federal Work Study Program provides the Senior Nutrition Program with student assistants who

handle congregate meal client registration and monthly rosters for the nutrition sites. This gives the

students an opportunity to work part-time to help fund their education at San José State University (SJSU)

while simultaneously gaining workplace experience. Here are our students:

Kathrina

“Hi, I’m Kat! I’m majoring in

Nutritional Science and hope to

venture out into the health field.

I’ve been working for this program

for about 2 years.”

Soraya

‘Hello! I am majoring in

Kinesiology and minoring in

Forensic Science. I have been

working for SNP for about

8 months.”

Elizabeth

“I’m a graduating senior pursuing

a Bachelor of Fine Arts in

Photography. I’ve been working for

SNP for about 6 months.”

San Jose State University Department of Nutrition and Food Science

The Senior Nutrition Program collaborates with SJSU’s Department of Nutrition and Food Science to

train future dietitians. Students are provided practical experience in community nutrition through the

Field Experience course and Dietetic Internship. Students must meet a minimum number of work experi-

ence hours to receive credit for completion of the class course or internship program. Under the super-

vision of SNP registered dietitians, students apply theoretical knowledge learned in the classroom to

hands-on work experience with the community nutrition and food service. Students completing the Die-

tetic Internship program meet the qualifications for practice in dietetics as a Registered Dietitian.

8


Second Harvest Food Bank and Bulk Food Distribution

SNP partners with Second Harvest Food Bank (SHFB) to provide free

access to bulk food to reduce raw food costs. Congregate meal sites are

able to pick up an array of fresh produce, depending on what is in season

and available that week. Additional dry food can be ordered through

SHFB once a month and picked up at the Salvation Army. Meal sites

picked up 93,199 pounds of food at San Jose SHFB and 21,056 pounds

of food at San Mateo SHFB (La Comida), which saved sites $194,234

(114,255 total pounds x SHFB designated value of $1.70/lb).

Second Harvest Food Bank and CalFresh

In the SNP satisfaction survey distributed to Meals on Wheels participants, the last question inquired as to

whether or not a participant was interested in being contacted regarding CalFresh eligibility. This fiscal

year, 50 seniors indicated interest and provided their contact information for SHFB to determine eligibility.

Second Harvest Food Bank Brown Bag Program

Separate from SNP, SHFB and many of our congregate meal sites partner to provide the Brown Bag pro-

gram to participants. The Brown Bag includes a weekly bag of nutritious groceries such as fresh produce,

cereal, rice and other staple items that are delivered directly to the site. Participating sites include:

Other County Agencies

The Department of Environmental Health and the Public Health Department shared their knowledge and

expertise to keep our sites and seniors safe and healthy.

Partnerships

Gilroy Senior Center

Mountain View Senior Center

Alma Senior Center

Cypress Senior Center

Eastside Neighborhood Center

John XXIII Multi-Service Center

Mayfair Community Center

POSSO

Seven Trees Community Center

Southside Senior Center

Korean American Community

Services, Inc.

Northside Community Center

Santa Clara Valley Blind Center

Los Gatos

Villa Vasona

Gardner

Salvation Army

9


Program Summary

The Senior Nutrition Program is authorized by the Older Americans Act of 1965 and has provided meals

to eligible seniors 60 years of age and older in Santa Clara County since 1974. The purpose of the pro-

gram is to reduce hunger and food insecurity, increase socialization and promote the health and well-being

of older adults by improving access to nutritious meals and other health services.

No senior is denied a meal if he/she is unable to pay!

Congregate Meals Program

39 sites countywide, open to all seniors age 60 or older

30 ethnically diverse menus

Each meal provides 1/3 of the daily recommended dietary allowance for a senior

Meal preparation varies by site—cook-on-site, restaurant catered, commercial kitchen

catered or centralized kitchen catered

Provides social opportunities as well as access to exercise programs, classes, legal and

financial services and more

Nutrition education offered four times a year at each site

Transportation services

Suggested participant contribution of $3.00 per meal

Meals on Wheels Program

Serves the most frail and isolated seniors of our community

Provides weekly delivery of 14 meals

Five (5) frozen lunch/dinners, in addition to a salad and sandwich/wrap entrees

and seven (7) breakfasts

Grocery items such as milk, bread, juice, fresh fruit, crackers, cheese, peanut

butter, etc.

Meals planned by a registered dietitian to meet 2/3 of the recommended dietary

allowance for a senior

Nutrition education offered four times a year through a newsletter

Suggested participant contribution of $1.80 per day

An additional Meals on Wheels service is provided through a contract with Yu-Ai Kai to

prepare and deliver daily hot meals to the Japantown and Berryessa neighborhoods

10

Target Population

Older Americans Act of 1965 Mandate

The Older Americans Act of 1965 (OAA) mandates the Senior Nutrition Program to provide nutrition

services to all persons aged 60 or older. Additionally, the OAA requires that services target persons with

the greatest social and economic need with particular attention to seniors who are age 75 or older, low-

income, living alone and/or minorities.

Target Population Minimum FY14-15

Age 75+ 32.00% 56.48%

Low-Income 7.00% 54.49%

Living Alone 7.00% 33.94%

Minority 40.00% 71.58%

Target Population

The following minimum targets are established by

the OAA to provide services to those in greatest

need. In FY 2014-2015, the Senior Nutrition Pro-

gram exceeded the targets in all areas.

Minimum

Minimum

Minimum

Minimum

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Congregate Meals Program Overview

The Congregate Meals Program offers nutritious and healthy lunches at 39 different nutrition sites through-

out the County of Santa Clara. These lunches are either cooked on-site or catered by local restaurants or

food vendors and provide 1/3 of the Recommended Dietary Allowance for a senior. Additionally, these daily

lunches allow seniors the opportunity to socialize with one another and access exercise programs, classes

and other activities. The Congregate Meals Program is open to all seniors age 60 or over.

City of San José Conversion to Cook-On-Site

During the financial crisis in 2011, the City of San José (CSJ) considered closing a number of their congregate

meal sites. Given the importance of lower costs and maintaining food security within the senior population,

CSJ decided to switch from a cook-on-site model to a catered site model. While this solution did help with

the budget, many seniors were unhappy with the transition and expressed concern with the food quality and

lack of variety in food options.

In response to these concerns, the County of Santa Clara Board of Supervisors approved an on-going inven-

tory item of $400,000 during the FY 2014-2015 budget hearings to support the transformation of eleven con-

gregate meals sites back to the cook-on-site model.

Through the hard work of staff from the City of San José, Bateman Community Living and County of Santa

Clara, the transition occurred as scheduled on January 20, 2015. Results and data from the December 2014

and May 2015 pre- and post-surveys showed that congregate meal participants are happier with the cook-on-

site model. The “Service Improved” and “Overall Satisfaction” categories improved 18.55% and 5.04% re-

spectively. Thank you to the Board of Supervisors!

City of San José Catered to Cook-on-Site Transition Before After Change

Survey Question Answer % % %

I feel healthier by eating at the nutrition site. Yes 94.12% 95.09% +0.97%

My health and spirits are maintained by socialization at the

nutrition site. Yes 97.44% 97.38% -0.07%

I have maintained my independence by attending the nutri-

tion site. Yes 95.85% 94.93% -0.93%

Over the past year, I feel the service at the nutrition site

has: Improved 58.57% 77.12% +18.55%

My overall level of satisfaction with the nutrition site is: Positive 87.43% 88.43% +5.04%

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Congregate Meals

Registration Process

In order to receive State and Federal reimbursement, all seniors must regis-

ter for the program. Eligible participants complete the federally required

form, available in four languages, at the nutrition sites which are then for-

warded to SNP for processing. A single point of entry was created at SNP

to receive all forms which are entered into a database maintained by the

County’s Area Agency on Aging. Over 5,200 registration forms were pro-

cessed this year—an 80% increase from last year. The accuracy rate and

turn-around time for enrollment has also significantly improved. After forms

are entered into the database, registration numbers are assigned, barcodes

are created and participants are added to the nutrition sites’ rosters. The

nutrition sites use the barcode to create a “gold card” which is held by the

participant and scanned prior to eating a meal. Scanning participants’ bar-

codes allows the County to track participant attendance and demographics.

Participant Profile

A couple who attend the program at the Self-Help for the Elderly (Self-Help) nutrition site want to share

their story of how the Congregate Meals Program improved their quality of life.

Prior to learning about the program, the couple struggled with preparing meals for themselves. The wife had

been diagnosed with anxiety and was uncomfortable around others in group settings. She preferred to stay at

home and in bed which made it difficult for the couple to receive adequate nutrition and socialization. The

husband first attended Self-Help by himself and felt that going to the site provided him with an opportunity to

socialize and eat a healthy meal. He wanted his wife to have the same opportunity, but overcoming her anxie-

ty would be an obstacle. With their permission, SNP staff met with the couple in March 2015 to determine

the best option for the wife. Although she was hesitant to venture outside of her comfort zone, being able to

eat healthy Asian meals was appealing. She began accompanying her husband to the site once a week at the

end of the serving time. Gradually, with the support of her husband, site staff and volunteers, she was able to

attend daily and sit with the other seniors during the regular serving time.

She now volunteers at the site distributing milk to the other seniors. This routine helps her get out of bed

daily and she is determined to keep making small changes to improve her mental health. She is very thankful

for that fateful meeting in March that helped motivate her in making positive changes in her life.

Program Overview

POSSO, Photo by Elizabeth Tae

13

Meal Sites by District

1. Almaden Community Center

2. Gilroy Senior Center

3/4. Live Oak/LOADS

5. Morgan Hill - Mt. Madonna YMCA

17. Southside Community Center

6. Villa Vasona

6445 Camden Ave, San Jose, CA 95120

7371 Hanna St, Gilroy, CA 95020

111 Church St, Los Gatos, CA 95030

171 W Edmundson Ave, Morgan Hill, CA 95037

5585 Cottle Rd, San Jose, CA 95123

626 W Parr Ave, Los Gatos, CA 95030

7. Alma Senior Center

8. Eastside Neighborhood Center

9. Gardner Community Center

10. John XXIII Multiservice Center

11. Mayfair Community Center

12. Northside Community Center

13. Portuguese Org. for Social Services Opp.

14. Roosevelt Community Center

15. Salvation Army

16. Seven Trees Community Center

19. Yu Ai Kai

136 W Alma Ave, San Jose, CA 95110

2150 Alum Rock Ave, San Jose, CA 95116

520 W Virginia St, San Jose, CA 95125

195 E San Fernando St, San Jose, CA 95112

2039 Kammerer Ave, San Jose, CA 95116

488 N 6th St, San Jose, CA 95112

1115 E Santa Clara St, San Jose, CA 95116

901 E Santa Clara St, San Jose, CA 95116


3590 Cas Dr, San Jose, CA 95111


20. Alviso Community Center

21. Berryessa Community Center

22. Evergreen Community Center

23. India Community Center Milpitas

24. Milpitas Senior Center

18. Sunnyvale - First Methodist Church

5050 N 1st St, San Jose, CA 95002

3050 Berryessa Rd, San Jose, CA 95132

4860 San Felipe Rd, San Jose, CA 95135

525 Los Coches St, Milpitas, CA 95035

40 N Milpitas Blvd, Milpitas, CA 95035

535 Old San Francisco Rd, Sunnyvale, CA 94086

35. Cubberley Community Center

36. La Comida

37. Mountain View Senior Center

38. Self-Help for the Elderly Cupertino

39. Stevenson House

4000 Middlefield Rd, Palo Alto, CA 94306

450 Bryant St, Palo Alto, CA 94301

266 Escuela Ave, Mountain View, CA 94040

940 S Stelling Rd, Cupertino, CA 95014

455 E Charleston Rd, Palo Alto, CA 94306

25. Asian Americans for Community Involvement

26. Billy de Frank LGBT Community Center

27. Camden Community Center

28. Campbell Adult Center

29. Cypress Senior Center

30. HOPE Rehabilitation Center

31. Korean American Community Services

32. Santa Clara Senior Center

33. Santa Clara Valley Blind Center

34. Willows Senior Center

2400 Moorpark Ave #300, San Jose, CA 95128

938 The Alameda, San Jose, CA 95126

3369 Union Ave, San Jose, CA 95124

1 W Campbell Ave, Campbell, CA 95008

403 S Cypress Ave, San Jose, CA 95117

1555 Parkmoor Ave, San Jose, CA 95128

1800-B Fruitdale Ave, San Jose, CA 95128

1303 Fremont St, Santa Clara, CA 95050

101 N Bascom Ave, San Jose, CA 95128

2175 Lincoln Ave, San Jose, CA 95125

District 1

Supervisor

Wasserman

87,732 Meals

Served

District 2

Supervisor

Chavez

243,732 Meals

Served

District 3

Supervisor

Cortese

99,853 Meals

Served

District 4

Supervisor

Yeager

105,803 Meals

Served

District 5

Supervisor

Simitian

86,658 Meals

Served

Congregate Meals

14

Map of Meal Sites

Senior Nutrition Sties City Limits

County Supervisor Districts

Cindy Chavez

Dave Cortese

Ken Yeager

Mike Wasserman

S. Joseph Simitian

Legend

Congregate Meals

Map Courtesy of Steve Borgstrom, Department of Planning & Development

District 3

District 4 District 5

District 1

District 2

15

Congregate Meals Map of Meal Sites

Map Courtesy of Steve Borgstrom, Department of Planning & Development

Senior Nutrition Sties City Limits

County Supervisor Districts

Cindy Chavez

Dave Cortese

Ken Yeager

Mike Wasserman

S. Joseph Simitian

Legend

District 1

16

In FY 2014-2015, a total of 623,778 Congregate Meals were served to 12,990 unduplicated seniors across

the 39 different nutrition sites in the County.

The number of meals served at each site in FY 2014-2015 was dependent on the location of the site, the

demographic groups in the surrounding area and number of days a week the site was open. Attendance

also varied due to activities and events. For example, seniors were attracted to attend lunches at sites

that offered their favorite activities and special events during holidays.

FY 2014-2015 Congregate Meals Program Trend

Attendance at the Congregate Meal

Sites fluctuated month to month.

During the months of November,

December and January, attendance

decreased due to the holiday season

and seniors spending time with family.

Attendance also tended to be lower

on cold or rainy days.

Nutrition Site # Meals

AACI 6,697

Billy De Frank 1,812

Cubberley 2,116

Eastside 33,984

Gilroy 20,080

HOPE 6,033

ICC 7,649

John XXIII 33,397

KACS 10,713

La Comida 35,318

Los Gatos 8,785

LOADS 3,323

Morgan Hill 16,822


Mt. View 30,352

Northside 18,008

POSSO 22,415

Salvation Army 31,688

SCV Blind Center 2,064

Self-Help 15,019

Stevenson House 3,853

Sunnyvale 30,266

Villa Vasona 1,601

Yu-Ai Kai 15,725

City of Campbell 15,867

City of Milpitas 21,232

City of Santa Clara 21,240


Alma 11,758

Almaden 12,718

Alviso 1,356

Berryessa 17,378

Camden 11,647

Cypress 11,274

Evergreen 21,972

Gardner 6,854

Mayfair 17,526

Roosevelt 36,179

Seven Trees 16,198

Southside 24,403

Willow Glen 18,456

Congregate Meals

Statistics

17

Five Year Congregate Meals Program Trend

There was an increase of 40,649

(6.97%) congregate meals served to

seniors in FY 2014-2015.


(12.31%) unduplicated seniors

served in FY 2014- 2015.

Participant Demographics

The largest age group participating in the Congregate Meals Program is in the 70 – 79 age group with

5,097 participants (approximately 39.24%).

Age Range Count Percentage

00-59 147 1.13%

60-64 1,081 8.32%

65-69 2,042 15.72%

70-74 2,535 19.52%

75-79 2,562 19.72%

80-89 3,557 27.38%

90-99 1,001 7.71%

100+ 65 0.50%

Statistics and Demographics

Congregate Meals

18


The largest group participating in the Congregate

Meals Program were Asian participants (50.52%).

Congregate Meals Program Participants are diverse seniors with different food preferences. Careful at-

tention is paid to developing menus that are cost effective and palatable to diverse ethnic and cultural

groups. Suggestions from surveys and focus groups are used to enhance menu development and minimize

taste fatigue.

Participants of Chinese descent were the largest

sub-group, making up 49.18% of the Asian group.

Race Count Percentage

Other/Multiple Race 551 4.24%

Asian 6,562 50.52%

African Ancestry 226 1.74%

Hispanic/Latino 1,956 15.06%

Caucasian 3,129 24.09%

Declined to State 566 4.36%


Indian 378 5.76%

Chinese 3,227 49.18%

Filipino 458 6.98%

Japanese 558 8.50%

Korean 293 4.47%

Vietnamese 724 11.03%

Other Asian 924 14.08%

“Although I didn’t realize it at the time, after my husband died I fell into a deep depression. I slept through breakfast

and had wine, chips and dip for lunch and dinner every day. A friend encouraged me to eat at a meal site. I was re-

luctant at first, but enjoyed myself and started attending regularly. Now I am a volunteer at the site.

- Congregate Meals Participant

Congregate Meals

Demographics

19

Congregate Meals

Demographics


Of the 12,990 seniors participating in the

Congregate Meals Program in FY 2014-2015,

57.66% were female and 39.11% were male.

52.56% of Congregate Meals Participants live

at or below the Federal Poverty Level

(FPL). For 2014, the FPL for a household

of one (1) person was $11,670 annually

or $972.50 monthly.

Approximately 32.08% of Congregate Meals

Participants live alone. Participants attending

meals at the nutrition sites can socialize with

one another, partake in various activities and

access other services.

“Living alone but nurtured by Mt. View gen-

erosity. I can survive with dignity. And many

others are doing the same.”

- Mt. View Participant

“We are both very pleased with the lunch

program, a good reason to get moving.

Thank you all for it.”

- Sunnyvale Participant

20

Meals on Wheels

Program Overview

Meals on Wheels (MOW) is a valued service that

assists homebound older adults in maintaining prop-

er nutrition, health and independence. The Santa

Clara County MOW program provides two nutri-

tious meals daily, meeting 2/3 of Recommended Di-

etary Allowance. Seniors receive weekly deliveries

of frozen meals, entrée salads and sandwiches or

wraps (14 meals) and assorted grocery items such

as milk, bread, fresh fruit, juice, crackers, cheese,

peanut butter, etc.

Referrals and Assessments

Prospective participants are referred from various sources

including doctors, social workers and community-based

organizations. SNP’s partner, Sourcewise, deploys Nutrition

Coordinators to conduct initial assessments at potential participants’ homes. If applicants are deemed eligi-

ble for the program, they are placed on a list for meal delivery. Sourcewise’s Nutrition Coordinators also

conduct annual home-visit reassessments for every MOW participant.

Meals

SNP contracts with Bateman Community Living to provide low-fat, low-sodium, home-style meals. The

meals are chef-inspired recipes developed and perfected in Bateman’s Sacramento USDA culinary center.

The meals are prepared using lean meats, fresh or frozen vegetables and quality spices without added pre-

servatives. Once cooked, meals are pre-portioned in individual containers, sealed and labeled with high tech

cooling systems and sealing machines to ensure freshness is not compromised. Meals are kept in the freezer

until they are transported to the Santa Clara kitchen one week prior to delivery to the seniors’ homes. The

meals can be kept frozen up to six months from the date of preparation.

“Meeting and satisfying clients' needs, while at the same time complying with regulations can be a

challenge, but it’s one that we face with zeal to maximize customer satisfaction.”

- Bateman Community Living

Sourcewise Nutrition Coordinators conducted

1,615 home visit assessments.

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Program Overview

Meals on Wheels

Taste Test

To ensure the quality of meals served, SNP and Sourcewise Nutrition Coordinators conduct taste tests

throughout the fiscal year. Feedback is offered to improve the quality of the meals. The program also uses

survey results to identify participants’ likes and dislikes and adds new food items to the menus regularly.

Unacceptable or dissatisfying items are removed from the menu.

Meal Deliveries

Meals are delivered to participants once a week by Bateman Community Living

drivers. Drivers deliver the MOW meals via refrigerated vans to participants’

homes in locations all over Santa Clara County— from Palo Alto to Gilroy.

Seniors look forward to their scheduled delivery. Without the courtesy and

professionalism of the drivers, the MOW Program would not be successful.

Meal Breakdown

In addition to the Santa Clara County Meals on Wheels Program, Yu-Ai Kai’s Neighborhood Meals on Wheels

Program provides eligible seniors who live in the Japantown and Berryessa areas with a daily hot meal. In FY

2014-2015, a total of 682,988 meals were served to 1,689 unduplicated seniors between the two programs.

The 675,359 meals served by the Santa Clara County Meals on Wheels Program are broken down by the

following types of meals:

“Robert, our delivery man

is a most helpful, courteous

and cheerful young man.

Be sure to tell him that we

both agree with these

thoughts. Thank you!”

- MOW Participant

Santa Clara County Meals on Wheels – Meal Breakdown

Type of Meal Count Percentage

Regular Delivery (Breakfasts and Entrées) 651,328 96.44%

Bonus Holiday Meals (Once per Month) 10,648 1.58%

Extra Breakfast Entrées (Once per Month) 10,758 1.59%

Shelf-Stable Meals (Delivered Yearly) 2,625 0.39%

Total 675,359 100.00%

Thanks to the generous donations from the community, 26 microwave ovens

were provided to participants who did not have a functioning microwave.

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Meals on Wheels

Participant Profile

Wendy Wensch, 66 years old, was born in the countryside of Rhode Island.

Despite being born blind, partially deaf and being diagnosed early in life with

cerebral palsy, Wendy’s parents taught her to be independent. Several

years ago, Wendy was a victim of a violent crime which caused injury to her

spinal cord, confining her to a wheel chair. With limited income and the

insistent desire to reside alone in the community, her doctor recommended

Meals on Wheels.

Wendy started receiving weekly deliveries in November 2012. She is able

to heat the meals herself and add her own touch, such as introducing garlic

powder and a special dressing to her salad. She looks forward to her weekly delivery and appreciates the

drivers who treat her and her home with respect.

Wendy was recently diagnosed with cancerous tumors in her legs and is now undergoing chemotherapy.

Never deterred, Wendy continues to have a positive attitude and live life to the fullest. As a self-taught

musician, she plays harmonica for groups, friends and her own pleasure. Wendy also spends her time lis-

tening to her boom box, playing solitaire with Braille cards and chats with friends on the phone or at the

coffee shop.

Wendy savors her independence. She stated she is grateful to the Meals on Wheels Program which allows

her to reside in her own place and on her own terms.

Benefits of MOW

Improved nutrition through access to food.

Healthy meals - lower in fat, sodium and sugar.

Affordable meals - suggested contribution $1.80/day.

Flexible meal planning - seniors eat when they want.

Weekly visits by MOW drivers.

Annual home visits by MOW Nutrition Coordinators.

Nutrition education - quarterly MOW Newsletters.

23

Meals on Wheels

Statistics and Demographics

Five Year Meals on Wheels Program Trend


(13.98%) meals served to seniors

in FY 2014-2015.

There was an increase of 232

(15.92%) unduplicated

seniors served in

FY 2014- 2015.


The largest age group participating in the Meals on Wheels Program is in the 80 – 89 age group with

573 participants (approximately 33.97%).

Age Range Count Percentage

00-59 4 0.24%

60-64 118 6.99%

65-69 234 13.85%

70-79 228 13.50%

75-79 216 12.79%

80-89 573 33.93%

90-99 305 18.06%

100+ 11 0.65%

Just thank you very much! It’s been

a great, great help. I am 99 years

old and all is greatly appreciated.

- MOW Participant

24

Meals on Wheels

Demographics


The Meals on Wheels Program provides meals to a diverse group of homebound seniors.

Of the 1,689 seniors participating in the

Meals on Wheels Program in FY 2014-

2015, 63.23% were female and 36.77%

were male.

Almost 70% of Meals on Wheels Partici-

pants live at or below the Federal Pov-

erty Level (FPL). For 2014, the FPL for a

household of one (1) person was

$11,670 annually or $972.50 monthly.


Other/Multiple Race 56 3.32%

Asian 231 13.68%

African Ancestry 111 6.57%

Hispanic/Latino 223 13.20%

Caucasian 1,043 61.75%

Declined to State 25 1.48%

25

Meals on Wheels

Demographics and Next Steps


Almost 50% of Meals on Wheels Participants

live alone. Seniors who live alone are more

prone to malnutrition as they may not enjoy

cooking or eating alone, make poor food

choices or may not know how to cook.

Year-in-Review and Next Steps

The Meals on Wheels Program successfully provided nutritious meals to homebound senior residents of

the County of Santa Clara in FY 2014-2015. Overall, the Meals on Wheels Program saw a significant in-

crease in both meals and unduplicated participants served during the year; however, all eligible seniors who

requested and qualified for services through the Meals on Wheels Program were served this year. The

Senior Nutrition Program will continue to work with our partners to ensure continued Meals on Wheels

Program success in FY 2015-2016.

“Just a quick note to say a sincere thank you for the Meals on Wheels Program. I am a 63 year old, wheel-

chair bound, lower leg amputee who lives alone in Morgan Hill. I was having tremendous difficulty shopping

for groceries & cooking on a regular basis. I am also a diabetic & was having trouble controlling my numbers.

Since I have been receiving Meals on Wheels (about 3 weeks), I have delicious & nutritious food every day &

my numbers have improved tremendously. Your delivery driver is very helpful & kind also. I am very grateful

for your service & wanted to let you know how much help you have been to me.”

- MOW Participant

“I don’t get out much anymore. My son is my

only living relative and he resides in Japan. I

am lucky to receive Meals on Wheels.”

- 91-year old Participant

26

Program Costs

Expenditure Funding Sources — Transportation

County General Fund

Funding for the Mobility Management Program comes exclusively from the County General Fund. In FY 2014-

2015, $257,189.00 was used to provide mobility options to seniors with transportation barriers that allowed

them gain access to nutrition sites throughout the County. Mobility options for seniors include bus passes, gas

cards, volunteer drivers and door-to-door transportation services.

Measure A Funds

On April 15, 2014, the Board of Supervisors approved the allocation of Measure A tax revenue to fund a vari-

ety of social services. In FY 2014-2015, the Measure A Senior Transportation Program was implemented to

provide even more mobility options including safe-walking groups, adult bicycles/tricycles and older driver

safety classes to a greater number of seniors in the County. Participants were also able to utilize these ser-

vices to reach other locations such as grocery stores or doctor’s offices in addition to the nutrition sites. Of

the $750,000.00 allocated to the program in FY 2014-2015, $555,296.45 was expended. The remaining bal-

ance was rolled-over for use in FY 2015-2016.

Senior Nutrition Program Expenditures

In FY 2014-2015, the Senior Nutrition Program expended $8,494,776.33.

Expenditure Amount Percentage

Mobility

Management $257,189.00 3.03%

Measure A Senior

Transportation $555,296.45 6.54%

Congregate

Meals $4,301,442.21 50.64%

Meals on Wheels $2,116,134.22 24.91%

Administrative* $1,264,714.45 14.89%

Total $8,494,776.33 100.00%

Of the $8,494,766.33 expended by the Senior Nutrition Program in FY 2014-2015, $812,485.45 went

towards transportation services through the Mobility Management Program and Measure A Senior Transpor-

tation Program and $7,682,290.88 went towards nutrition services through the Congregate Meals Program

and Meals on Wheels Program.

*Administrative Expenditures include staff salaries, small kitchen items, office

supplies, etc. and are split 80% Congregate / 20% Home-Delivered

27

Program Costs

Federal and State Funding

Funding from the federal and state levels come in the form of the Older Americans Act of 1965 (OAA)

Title III Funds and Nutrition Services Incentive Program (NSIP) Funds. Each year, the California Depart-

ment of Aging allocates OAA and NSIP funds across the 33 Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) within Califor-

nia. The AAAs then disburse the funds within their local jurisdiction toward a variety of senior services

including senior work programs, supportive services, nutrition services, etc. Sourcewise is the designated

AAA for the County of Santa Clara.

Participant Contributions

The Senior Nutrition Program collects suggested contributions from Congregate Meals Program and Meals

on Wheels Program participants. These participant contributions are cycled back into the programs to

cover the cost of the meals and other program expenses.

County of Santa Clara General Fund

For some counties in California, OAA and NSIP Funds are the only source of funding for that county’s

Senior Nutrition Program. In the County of Santa Clara, in addition to federal and state funding, County

General Fund is appropriated to the Senior Nutrition Program to allow a greater number of participants

the ability to attend lunches at nutrition sites or receive Meals on Wheels.

Meals on Wheels Trust Fund (Donations)

Our generous community members contributed $148,304 through online and mailing list donations for the

Meals on Wheels Program. These donations are placed in a trust fund. Due to tremendous growth of

Meals on Wheels in FY 2014-2015, the Senior Nutrition Program had to transfer funds out of the Trust

Fund and into the budget to ensure that there was enough funding to serve all participants.

Expenditure Funding Sources — Nutrition

Funding Source Amount Percentage

NSIP* $979,488.00 12.75%

Title III (Federal)* $1,745,897.00 22.73%

Title III (State)* $308,689.00 4.02%

Contributions $840,961.84 10.95%

County General Fund $3,487,255.04 45.39%

MOW Trust Fund $320,000.00 4.17%

Total $7,682,290.88 100%

*These funds are distributed by Sourcewise

28

Program Costs

Funding Overview

Portions of the Congregate Meals Program and Meals on Wheels Program are funded through Title III and

NSIP Funding and are distributed by the County’s AAA, Sourcewise. In addition, Sourcewise distributes One

-Time-Only (OTO) Special Funds from the State if there are unexpended OAA Funds available. For both

programs, Title III Funding was fixed for the year. For NSIP Funding and OTO Special Funds (starting in Oc-

tober), Sourcewise reimbursed SNP up to a limited number of allocated meals. The Senior Nutrition Pro-

gram exceeded the allotment of meals for both Congregate Meals and Meals on Wheels in FY 2014-2015.

Congregate Meals Program OAA Funding

In FY 2014-2015, the Congregate Meals Program received $2,023,660.00 in OAA Funding as follows:

Both allocations for NSIP Funding and OTO Special Funds for the Congregate Meals Program were exhaust-

ed in June 2015. Meals that were not reimbursed by Sourcewise were covered by General Fund.

Meals on Wheels Program OAA Funding

In FY 2014-2015, the Meals on Wheels Program received $1,010,414.00 in OAA Funding as follows:

Both allocations for NSIP Funding and OTO Special Funds for the Meals on Wheels Program were exhausted

in May 2015. Meals that were not reimbursed by Sourcewise were covered by General Fund.

Older Americans Act of 1965 Funding — A Closer Look

OAA Funding Amount

Title III $1,525,060.00

NSIP* $422,252.00

OTO Special Funds* $76,348.00

Total $2,023,660.00

OAA Funding Amount

Title III $529,526.00

NSIP* $435,977.00

OTO Special Funds* $44,911.00

Total $1,010,414.00

29

Mobility Management

Program Overview

The Mobility Management Program is a coordinated

effort with Outreach & Escort, Inc. (OUTREACH) to

provide mobility options to seniors so they can attend

daily, healthy lunches at nutrition sites. Mobility man-

agement provides coordinated, individualized trans-

portation services to meet the needs of the seniors.

The service expands the range of mobility for seniors

and increases attendance to nutrition sites. In June,

funds for the Mobility Management Program were ex-

hausted; therefore, clients who requested services

were shifted to the Measure A Program.

One-Way Rides

In FY 2014-2015, a total of 122,828

one-way rides were provided to

seniors with transportation barriers.

Mobility Option One-Way

Trips Percentage

ADA Rides 13,388 10.90%

Monthly Bus Pass Trips* 60,928 49.60%

Prepaid Gas Card Trips* 44,792 36.47%

Van & Volunteer Driver Trips* 3,720 3.03%

Urgent Need Taxi Services Trips 0 0.00%

Mileage Reimbursement Trips 0 0.00%

Total 122,828 100.00%

There was a 10.9% increase in total number of

one-way rides from last year.

“I really feel that the gas card has been a special

blessing in my life in taking care of myself and being

able to get to the senior center for the special meals

and other special things they have.”

- Mobility Management Participant

Image Courtesy of OUTREACH

*Estimated one-way rides are based on

average usage per mobility option as re-

ported by OUTREACH:

- ADA Rides: Actual Usage

- Bus Passes: 17 one-way rides/month

- Gas Cards: 22 one-way rides/month

- Van & Volunteer Svcs.: 8 one-way rides/

month

30

Mobility Management

Statistics and Program Cost

Seniors Served

An average of 606 seniors per month were served by

the Mobility Management Program. The average number

of seniors served per month only increased by 35 partic-

ipants from last year due to the implementation of the

Measure A Senior Transportation Program. Since the

Measure A Program served the same target population

as the Mobility Management Program and provided simi-

lar mobility options, participants who requested trans-

portation services were split between the two programs.

No Waitlist for Services

There has not been a waitlist for the Mobility Management Program for all of FY 2014-2015. Due to the

additional funding approved by the Board of Supervisors to implement the Measure A Program, all partici-

pants who enrolled in the Senior Nutrition Program and required transportation assistance were served.

Average Cost Per Ride & Budget Distribution

The total FY 2014-2015 budget allocated to Mobility Management Services was $257,189.00. In FY 2014-

2015, OUTREACH expended the full amount. The average cost per ride was approximately $2.09.

A majority of the Mobility Management Services Program budget was allocated to the usage of Bus Passes,

Gas Cards, and ADA Door-to-Door Services. The average cost per one-way ride decreased by approxi-

mately 8.10% from FY 2013-2014.

Mobility Management Budget and Average Cost/Ride

Transportation Service FY14-15

Budget Actual Cost

Expended

Units (1-Way

Rides)

Avg. Cost

per Ride

ADA Rides $235,9

01.0

0

$83,795.00 13,388 $6.26

Bus Passes $89,600.00 60,928 $1.47

Gas Cards $50,900.00 44,792 $1.14

Van & Volunteer Trips $11,625.00 3,780 $3.13

Mileage Reimbursement $0.00 0 $0.00

Urgent Need Taxi Services $0.00 0 $0.00

Program Support Fee $21,288.00 $21,269.00 N/A N/A

Total $257,189.00 $257,189.00 122,828 $2.09

31

Program Overview

In FY 2014-2015, the Board of Supervisors approved the Measure A – Senior Transportation Program

(Measure A Program) between the County and Outreach & Escort, Inc. (OUTREACH) to provide mobility

services to seniors with transportation barriers. These mobility services allow seniors access to nutrition

sites as well as non-nutrition destinations such as grocery stores and doctors’ appointments. Mobility options

include bus passes, gas cards, volunteer driver transportation, mileage reimbursement, door-to-door trans-

portation, ADA rides, safe walking groups, older adult bicycles/tricycles and older driver safety classes. The

program began on October 1, 2014 and runs through June 30, 2017 with a budget of $750,000.00 per year.

Objectives

The primary objectives of the program were to help alleviate the demand and waitlist for transportation to

senior nutrition sites and to serve at least 1,500 unduplicated seniors in FY 2014-2015. The Measure A Pro-

gram met its goals for FY 2014-2015. The program prevented a waitlist from accruing and served 3,231

unduplicated clients — exceeding the targeted number by 121%.

Seniors Served

In FY 2014-2015, there was a total of 195,918 one-way rides provided to an average of 1,385 seniors per

month through the Measure A Program.


Mobility Option Clients/

Month

Bus Passes (Nutrition) 901

Gas Cards (Nutrition) 69

ADA (Nutrition) 22

Bus Passes (Non-Nutrition) 227

Door-to-Door (Non-Nutrition) 148

ADA (Non-Nutrition) 18

Total 1,385

“I’m almost embarrassed how important coming down here and having lunch is. It’s something I kind of center

my day on. With the gas card it’s just easier for me and I feel less imposing on other people, I don’t like to

impose. The lunch program has made me feel better about myself”

- Camden Participant

32

Program Cost and Next Steps

Average Cost Per Ride & Budget Distribution

The total FY 2014-2015 budget allocated to the Measure A Program was $750,000.00. OUTREACH expend-

ed $555,296.45 for the year; the remaining $194,703.55 will be rolled-over to FY 2015-2016. The average

cost per ride was approximately $2.83.

Year-in-Review and Next Steps

The Measure A – Senior Transportation Program has successfully accomplished its goals in FY 2014-2015.

With Measure A funds allocated to provide more transportation options for senior residents of the County,

a waitlist was not needed for the duration of the whole fiscal year. Furthermore, 74.03% of the program’s

budget was expended to serve 3,231 unduplicated clients – 121% more than its targeted goal of 1,500

unduplicated clients. The combined number of one-way rides between the two transportation program to-

taled 318,746 in FY 2014-2015.


Measure A – Senior Transportation Budget and Average Cost/Ride

Transportation Service FY14-15

Budget Actual Cost

Expended

Units (1-Way

Rides)

Avg. Cost

per Ride

Bus Passes (Nutrition) $538,7

00.0

0

$202,775.00 137,887 $1.47

Gas Cards (Nutrition) $15,500.00 13,640 $1.14

ADA Rides (Nutrition) $19,018.75 3,043 $6.25

Bus Passes (Non-Nutrition) $51,100.00 34,748 $1.47

Door-to-Door (Non-Nutrition) $109,550.00 4,382 $25.00

ADA Rides (Non-Nutrition) $13,862.50 2,218 $6.25

Direct Personnel Costs $158,800.00 $111,970.16 N/A N/A

Administrative & Overhead $52,500.00 $31,520.04 N/A N/A

Total $750,000.00 $555,296.45 195,918 $2.83

“You can’t help getting older, but you don’t have to get old. - George Burns

33

Senior Nutrition Program in FY 2015-2016

Senior Nutrition Going Forward

Friends from Meals on Wheels Program

The Senior Nutrition Program recently released a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the Friends from Meals on

Wheels Program. The goal of the program is to increase socialization for isolated and home-bound seniors

and is set to be begin in FY 2015-2016.

Studies have shown that socialization decreases stress, increases self-esteem and reduces mental health issues

including depression. Increased socialization and the associated benefits mitigate the development of chronic

health issues and as a result, allows seniors to maintain their independence.

The Senior Nutrition Program looks forward to implementing this program in FY 2015-2016 to ensure that

the most frail and elderly older adults in the County are receiving services that improve their physical and

mental health, happiness and quality of life. The anticipated start date of the Friends from Meals on Wheels

Program is April 1, 2016.

Harvey Rose Management Audit

The Harvey Rose Management Audit Report was released in August 2014. The purpose of the audit was to

examine the operation, management practices and finances of the program to identify opportunities to in-

crease its efficiency, effectiveness and economy. Six (6) recommendations were made:

Seven Trees, Photo by Elizabeth

1. Increase MOW participant socialization and investigate

funding avenues.

2. Develop policy to expend trust fund.

3. Enhance and standardize the quality and services at the

congregate meal sites.

4. Strengthen transportation to the sites.

5. Examine options for serving meals in underserved areas.

6. Maximize participants receiving CalFresh.

Many of these recommendations have been or are in the pro-

cess of being implemented. SNP will continue to work on

them in FY 2015-2016 and will provide another report back to

the Finance and Government Operations Committee later this

year.

Documents

Senior Nutrition Program