Bay Terraces Seniors Resource Fair Ensures Access to Services

October 5, 2026

San Diego County Supervisor Monica Montgomery Steppe organized a resource fair at Bay Terraces Park where numerous seniors spent four hours consulting with nonprofits and agencies about various support services. The event, which was Montgomery Steppe's second senior community gathering in partnership with Councilmember Henry Foster III, addressed the growing senior population that currently represents 22 percent of San Diego County and is projected to increase by 16 percent by 2029. Organizations at the fair provided information on transportation, healthcare, legal assistance, nutrition, and elder abuse prevention, with attendees like 78-year-old Dennard Clendenin finding valuable resources such as free transportation services through San Diego PACE.

Who is affected

Seniors (adults over 60 years old) in San Diego County
Dennard Clendenin, 78, of National City
Residents 85 years and older (the fastest-growing age group)
Isolated seniors living alone
Seniors who have been victims of scams or abuse

What action is being taken

County Supervisor Monica Montgomery Steppe is organizing a series of community events for seniors
Nonprofits and agencies are providing information at resource fairs about transportation, legal issues, healthcare, caregiving, nutrition, technology, volunteering, and elder abuse
San Diego County's Aging & Independence Services is offering more than 30 free programs for seniors
San Diego PACE is providing free, fully covered transportation services for seniors
Serving Seniors is serving lunch to seniors Monday through Friday at the Bay Terraces senior center
Project Care is calling isolated seniors for regular check-ins

Why it matters

This matters because San Diego County's senior population currently comprises 22 percent of residents and is projected to grow by 16 percent by 2029, creating an urgent need for coordinated support services. As the population ages, particularly with residents 85 and older being the fastest-growing demographic group, ensuring access to essential services like transportation, housing, healthcare, and abuse prevention becomes critical for helping older adults maintain independence and dignity. The resource fairs connect vulnerable seniors—including those with failing vision, isolated individuals, and potential scam victims—with programs that can significantly improve their quality of life and safety.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint