Spectrum Community Services enhances the quality of life for older adults and residents experiencing low income in Alameda County. Founded more than 50 years ago, Spectrum provides a variety of services. Meals on Wheels offers home delivered meals and wellness checks for homebound seniors, while Senior Meals serves food to active seniors in a group setting that encourages socializing and friendship. Its fall  prevention program includes strength and balance exercise classes, education, and awareness efforts to keep clients on their feet. The Connect program provides supportive services to foster well-being and enrich the lives of Meals on Wheels clients beyond the provision of meals. The federally funded Low-Income Home Energy Assistance program helps qualifying households pay their energy bills, while the federally funded Weatherization program provides energy-saving home upgrades and appliance assistance.

"Spectrum Community Services stands out for its holistic, person-centered approach to service delivery," says Lara Calvert, Executive Director. "With deep roots in the community, we're committed to preserving dignity and independence for vulnerable residents—whether by delivering nutritious meals to homebound seniors, helping families avoid utility shutoffs, or preventing debilitating falls. Our long-tenured staff, culturally competent services, and trusted partnerships make us a lifeline for those we serve."

The nonprofit's Meals on Wheels program delivers hot, nutritious meals and daily wellness checks Monday through Friday to over 300 homebound seniors every week. The seniors served are often among the most vulnerable in the community, with 55% of them living alone and an average age of 78. Spectrum's program is unique in that meals are freshly prepared each day by its partner Stanford Health Care – Tri-Valley. 

"At a time when many Meals on Wheels programs across the country have had to cut back by reducing delivery days or switching to frozen meals, Spectrum Community Services remains committed to providing fresh, personal, high-quality service every weekday," notes Calvert. "For Pleasanton and Tri-Valley seniors, Meals on Wheels is more than a meal–it's nutrition, safety, and meaningful human connection delivered to their doorstep."

The Meals on Wheels program is also an opportunity to discover client problems early. Recently, a Meals on Wheels client told the volunteer meal delivery driver that her water heater had been broken for several weeks. The volunteer explained how Spectrum might be able to help. The client called Spectrum's Energy Department and applied for assistance. After qualifying for the program, the weatherization team not only replaced her water heater, but also installed other energy-saving and safety devices.

"Most people are surprised to learn how interconnected our services are," according to  Calvert. "A senior might come to us for Meals on Wheels and end up also receiving help with their energy bills through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program or participating in a strength and balance class to reduce their fall risk. We don't just offer isolated programs, we offer wraparound support that helps people stay safe, stable, and independent in their homes."

Spectrum relies on local volunteers, donors, and advocates to continue serving the growing needs of older adults and low-income families in the community. It also partners with organizations and businesses to host events, share resources, and strengthen the social safety net in this region. Volunteer opportunities are listed on the nonprofit's website. Another way to support the group is by attending its upcoming Oktoberfest. Steins for Seniors will be held on October 11, 2025, at the Castro Valley Women's Club.

"Whether it's through employee volunteerism, corporate sponsorship, or simply spreading the word, Hacienda businesses can play a vital role in keeping our neighbors nourished, safe, and connected," Calvert adds.

For more information about Spectrum Community Services, please visit www.spectrumcs.org/index.php, www.facebook.com/SpectrumCommunityServicesInc, www.instagram.com/spectrum_cs, or https://www.linkedin.com/company/spectrum-community-services-inc-.