The Newsom Administration launched a campaign to showcase the ways that older Californians have stepped up during the COVID-19 emergency, adapted to new ways of living, and rallied to care for themselves, their loved ones, and their communities. May 1 marked the first day of Older Californians Month, which has a special theme this year: “Make Your Mark!”
Throughout the month of May, the California Department of Aging (CDA) will share stories of older adults from across the state who are responding to the pandemic through tele-work, volunteerism, leadership, self-care practices, tutoring, caring for loved ones, lending a virtual hand, and more.
“Older adults in California were the first to answer our call to stay at home, but your contributions go above and beyond physical isolation,” Gov. Gavin Newsom said. “You are role models to the rest of the world; proving that each of us can step up and meet this moment in our own unique way. Your stories of service and sacrifice will inspire others to make their mark during this crisis, just as you have.”
To fight the spread of COVID-19, the California Department of Aging launched a series of efforts in partnership with Newsom, each aimed at ensuring older Californians have what they need to stay nourished, healthy, and connected while staying at home.
The Stay Home. Save Lives. Check-In. Campaign is an all-hands-on-deck effort for neighbors of all ages to check-in with older Californians and make sure their needs are met. Now, for the entire month of May, CDA is leading the statewide Make Your Mark effort to celebrate the unique contributions older Californians are making to keep their communities safe and healthy.
“Older adults may be staying home to stay safe and save lives-but you certainly aren’t sitting out these challenging times,” said Kim McCoy Wade, director of the California Department of Aging. “Even behind closed doors and face masks, you are making your mark. Your sacrifices, your willingness to stay home to keep yourself and others safe, and your commitment to staying connected are essential, life-saving, and heroic. We see you, and we look forward to sharing your powerful stories.”
For more information on Older Californians Month 2020: Make Your Mark, and details about how you can participate, visit aging.ca.gov/makeyourmark.
