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SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula is developing a local Master Plan for Aging, inspired by California’s groundbreaking Master Plan for Aging (MPA). This initiative addresses the state’s rapidly growing and diversifying over-60 population, projected to reach 10.8 million by 2030, or one-quarter of the population. The MPA is a comprehensive blueprint designed to prioritize the health and well-being of older Californians and people with disabilities, outlining five bold goals and twenty-three strategies to create a “California for All Ages” by 2030.
Recognizing the importance of supporting its aging population, the Santa Paula City Council incorporated the development of a Senior Master Plan (Master Plan for Aging) into the two-year Strategic Plan under Category F: Community Vitality. This category aims to provide the residents of Santa Paula with sustainable resources and programs, making it a great place to live and grow. Objective #7 within this category specifically focuses on developing a Senior Master Plan tailored to the needs of Santa Paula’s residents.
This effort aims to support not just today’s older adults but also younger generations, ensuring equitable opportunities and fostering connections among family, friends, neighbors, coworkers, and caregivers. It emphasizes the importance of aging in ways and places of choice, creating a more inclusive future for all Californians.
By aligning with California’s vision and incorporating it into the City’s strategic goals, Santa Paula is taking meaningful steps toward creating a vibrant, age-friendly community for all. The City of Santa Paula has already hosted four community conversations as part of its Master Plan for Aging efforts, gathering valuable input from residents. These conversations are essential to shaping a plan that reflects the unique needs and priorities of Santa Paula’s senior community.
We invite you to join us for the next community conversation on Thursday, January 30, at 6:00 PM at the Santa Paula Youth Center, located at 431 N. 13th Street, Santa Paula, CA 93060. This session will be conducted in Spanish only. Those who attend will be entered for a chance to win a gift card. Enjoy complimentary pan dulce and cafecito as we discuss the future of aging in Santa Paula. Your input is vital, so bring your family, friends, and neighbors—this is a conversation for all ages and generations. Younger adults are encouraged to take action by informing their older family members and neighbors about this important event.
If you cannot attend the January 30 meeting, we welcome you to join our next conversation on Thursday, February 18, at 6:00 PM at the Harvest Limoneria Farmhouse. This session will be held in English with Spanish interpretation available. Our final community conversation will be held on Thursday, February 20 at 6:00 PM at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church located at 427 N Oak St, Santa Paula, CA 93060. Additionally, keep an eye out for a community survey launching in early February to help gather feedback from those unable to attend. Your insights will play a crucial role in shaping our city’s aging plan, and we encourage everyone to spread the word and participate.
Santa Paula’s Mayor, Pedro Chavez, shared his thoughts on the project: “Our City is doing the work of ensuring that all of our residents feel their voices are heard. The Master Plan for Aging is an essential step toward creating a future where everyone—regardless of age or ability—is able to enjoy a healthy and sustainable quality of life. Our City respects our seniors for their hard work and sacrifice and for their contribution to making Santa Paula a wonderful place to live, work, and play now and for future generations. We are committed to listening to our residents and working together to build a Santa Paula that values and supports our seniors and all generations.”
For more information about the Master Plan for Aging or the upcoming events, please contact Michael Schouten at mschouten@spcity.org or 805-933-4226 ext. 361. Let’s work together to create a brighter, more inclusive future for all!
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