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. 

Now, more than ever, we need your help. Funding for our #StayConnected initiatives has expired, but there is so much more work to be done! 

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

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

💻 Providing one-on-one Tech Help to seniors 

☎️ Reaching 1000's 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, 🧺 Essential Needs Pantry ...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

Evelyn’s Story – Resilience

Evelyn lived on the streets for 10 years before bravely starting over. When she visited us, we provided blankets, pantry items, and resources. She left inspired, saying she wanted to return as a volunteer. 

Stories like Evelyn’s remind us why Heart of Ida exists—to offer dignity, warmth, and hope. Your gift during Long Beach Gives helps older adults like Evelyn Stay Connected to our community. 

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.

Mona’s Story – New Beginnings with Heart of Ida

When Mona emigrated from Iran, she only knew the word “hello.” She came to Heart of Ida's drop-in office hours at the Long Beach Senior Center to be connected to   English classes, tech help, and essential needs support. Today, she chats with staff, volunteers, and even shares food with us. Her resilience and gratitude inspire us daily. 

Your support during Long Beach Gives helps newcomers like Mona find connection and belonging.     

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.  

Michael’s Story – Heart of Ida Provides Senior Hygiene Kit

“WOW! This organization is remarkable! You all do so much, and we appreciate this.” – Michael, after receiving a health & hygiene kit. Something as simple as soap, lotion, or toothpaste can restore dignity and comfort for a senior.

Your gift during Long Beach Gives helps us link older adults like Michael with the things they need with dignity.

DJ’s Story – Connection & Tech Learning with Heart of Ida

“Where’s my hug at?” That’s how DJ greets us every visit. She attended every tech class—even though she already knew a lot—just to show her support. She brings smiles, cheesecake, and so much kindness. Seniors like DJ remind us: learning is lifelong, and community is priceless.

Give during Long Beach Gives to keep Heart of Ida's senior tech classes and personal connections going strong in Long Beach.