The Heart of Ida

Every donation will help us continue our work to support Long Beach seniors in need with programs and services that sustain independence and connection within their community. 

This year, on September 24, 2026, our focus is simple: keeping Heart of Ida strong and steady so we can continue to be here for Long Beach seniors. Like many nonprofits, we are facing rising costs and reduced funding—but the needs of older adults in our community are greater than ever.

Your support keeps our #StayConnected initiatives alive, providing:

📖 Publishing and distributing the AgeWell Long Beach Senior Resource Guide to 5000+ seniors

📚 Sharing health education and addressing social determinants of health through our partnership with the CSULB School of Nursing.

🌟 Benefits Enrollment Support that assists seniors with applying for programs that save costs on Medicare, prescription, and food.  

💻 Providing one-on-one Tech Help to seniors 

☎️ Reaching over 2,500 of local seniors with our Stay Connected phone messages 

🤝 Managing the Long Beach Aging Services Collaborative to strengthen ties between local service providers 

🐶 Volunteer pet walks, 💌 Personal connections, 🧺 Seasonal Care Bags...and SO MUCH more!!! 

Heart of Ida was founded in 2008 by sisters Dina Berg and Keri Reich to honor their beloved grandmother, Ida. Inspired by Ida’s lifelong dedication to serving low-income, isolated older adults, they continued her legacy by creating Long Beach’s only nonprofit focused on supporting seniors. Today, Heart of Ida continues this mission with a compassionate, person-centered approach, partnering with volunteers, the city, and local organizations to make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable older adults.

Testimonials

Josefina’s Story – Heart of Ida Connects Seniors to Nutrition Resources

When Josefina was injured at work, she lost hours and struggled to carry heavy items. She came to Heart of Ida for help with her #CalFresh application and continues to receive support when she needs help uploading documents and navigating benefits. Food security = independence for older adults.

Your gift during Long Beach Gives helps keep seniors like Josefina nourished and supported.    

Howard’s Story – Heart of Ida Provides Tech Help for Seniors

Howard was robbed of all his belongings. Without a working phone or email, he was missing critical housing updates. Our staff helped him reset his phone, restore email, and gave him a hygiene kit. Today, he has secured housing and continues to visit us for tech help.

Small steps lead to big transformations.

Your gift during Long Beach Gives helps us provide senior tech help with dignity and patience. 

Patricia’s Story – Heart of Ida is a Lifeline to Seniors

After losing her husband, Patricia needed help applying for the Lifeline discounted phone service. She had already tried calling, with no luck. Our staff worked with her step by step until she was approved. Navigating services can be frustrating to older adults without a trusted advocate. Patricia later called back just to say thank you. 

Connection is everything. Your gift during Long Beach Gives helps seniors like Patricia Stay Connected to loved ones and their community.