Valley Adult Day Services, a Porterville-based nonprofit organization, has been awarded a national grant from the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) to create Mobile Memory Cafés which will bring dementia-friendly programming and caregiver support directly into underserved and rural areas of Tulare County.
Designed for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers, the Mobile Memory Café will host regular programming at community-based locations, removing common barriers to access such as transportation limitations, geographic isolation, and caregiver burden. Each session will provide cognitive stimulation and social engagement through facilitated activities such as music, sensory engagement, and reminiscence exercises. Caregivers will also have opportunities to connect with peers, access resources, and receive emotional support. Light refreshments are served to create a relaxed, café-style atmosphere.
Marina Chavez, Executive Director for Valley Adult Day Services, said, “Families caring for someone living with dementia should not have to face additional barriers simply because of where they live, through our Mobile Memory Café, we are bringing connection, support, and meaningful engagement directly into communities that may otherwise have limited access to dementia-specific resources. We are incredibly grateful to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America for believing in this vision and helping us ensure that families throughout Tulare County know they are seen, supported, and not alone.”
By meeting participants where they are, the Mobile Memory Café expands access to vital services while fostering inclusion, dignity, and quality of life for individuals affected by dementia.
“Support is essential for every family affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia-related illnesses,” said Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr., AFA’s president and chief executive officer. “Valley Adult Day Services’ Mobile Memory Café program is an innovative to remove barriers to care and support and make it easier for families to access crucial services. We are pleased to support their efforts.”
The $6,000 AFA grant will support operational expenses for the program, ensuring it is accessible and sustainable.
Families wishing to learn more about the Mobile Memory Café program can contact Valley Adult Day Services at 559-783-9815 or visit www.valleyadultdayservices.org.
AFA is able to provide vital services, like this grant, through the generosity of individuals and organizations. To support these initiatives or learn more about Alzheimer’s disease and resources available to help families affected by it, visit www.alzfdn.org