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As the designated Area Agency on Aging for Santa Clara County (SCC), Sourcewise continues to focus on improving access to support services for older adults, caregivers, and individuals with disabilities.

Over 1.3 million individuals 18 years and older live in SCC—17% are aged 60 or older— according to 2016 census data. Of those, 195,980 adults have a potential need for social services in SCC, and in fiscal year 2016-2017 (FY16-17), Sourcewise provided services to a total of 105,346 consumers.

The Sourcewise support network of critical services is available to all SCC adults 18 and older. Caregivers and others seeking to assist loved ones residing in SCC receive beneficial resources by taking the first step: contacting a Sourcewise Community Resource Specialist.

Community Resource Specialists offer information and education regarding available services, eligibility criteria, and guidance. Informational presentations given throughout the county educate community members about the Sourcewise services. In FY16-17, 23,099 individuals received personalized referrals of available services from Sourcewise.

Individuals are then offered a direct connection to other Sourcewise services, based on eligibility and need.

One of six direct services and an important safety net, Sourcewise Meals on Wheels (MOW) ensures that homebound adults, aged 60 or older, receive nutritious, home delivered meals–regardless of income. As stated in the 2016–2020 Sourcewise Area Plan, “In 2013, an adult aged 65 or older would require an income of nearly 2.5 times the federal poverty level in order to meet basic nutritional needs…”

In FY16-17, MOW provided 1.29 million meals to older adults in SCC; including meals at congregate sites. Sourcewise grantees partnering to provide seniors with access to nutritious meals include: Department of Aging and Adult Services, Yu-Ai-Kai, and the Health Trust.

Sourcewise provides an online directory of providers serving SCC: www.mysourcewise.com. The Resource Connection contains detailed contact information, eligibility criteria, and program details.