Local Non-Profits Come Together to Help Senior in Need

For decades Anthony worked for the County building roads, paying his taxes and contributing to his community. Now at 84, he finds himself trying to live without running water. He has been in his home in Pittsburg his whole life in a house that was built before he was born. The plumbing inside the house is as old as the structure itself.

When Bonnie Paulson, Café Specialist at Meals on Wheels Diablo Region, learned about his situation, she went into action. “Having no running water really is a life-threatening situation There was a need to help Anthony and that is what we do at MOW Diablo Region. In addition to delivering meals, we have a holistic approach to caring for seniors.”

Bonnie enlisted the help of An Elderly Wish Foundation and the Delta Advocacy Foundation to secure funding for the plumping repairs. The plumber offered to work at a reduced cost, and even Anthony pitched in what he could from his limited income, but it’s still not enough. “We have exhausted all of our resources and still need to raise $2,500,” explains Paulson. “The plumbing repairs will take a few days to complete. And because the building materials have asbestos, we need to place Anthony in a local hotel for his safety.”

Even in the midst of these challenges, Anthony is staying positive: “I’m doing pretty good, and happy to still be here.” A fundraising page has been set up to cover the additional costs. If you can help Anthony, go to https://www.classy.org/campaign/Help-Us-Help-Anthony/c378346

Meals on Wheels Diablo Region has served seniors in Contra Costa county for over 50 years, delivering nutritious meals and supportive services that address the needs of the seniors we serve. For more information, go to mowdiabloregion.org.