URGENT UPDATE: Anni Chung, CEO of Self-Help for the Elderly, is making headlines for her relentless advocacy for Asian seniors in San Francisco, especially as vital food programs face severe budget cuts. This news is particularly pressing as Chung has just been honored as one of the 2025 San Franciscans of the Year for her impactful work.
Chung has transformed the nonprofit from a modest budget of $1 million to an impressive $34 million annually, serving over 40,000 seniors in the community. “It’s really not about me,” Chung stated in an interview, emphasizing that the success is shared with her dedicated staff and volunteers. However, as funding diminishes, she is sounding the alarm on the urgent needs of the elderly population she serves.
The recent cuts to food programs have sparked significant concern among local leaders. Mayor Daniel Lurie and the Crankstart Foundation have stepped up, providing $18 million for emergency food cards, but Chung warns that this is only a temporary fix. “We must push for three full meals a day for our seniors,” she asserted, highlighting the critical nature of food security for this vulnerable group.
Chung’s organization has been a beacon of hope for San Francisco’s immigrant and monolingual Asian seniors since its inception in 1981. In a city where the Asian population comprises over 200,000 individuals, the necessity for culturally sensitive services is paramount. Chung notes that traditional Western approaches often overlook the familial values that define Eastern cultures, creating a disconnect in care.
As Chung adapts to the evolving landscape of community support, she also recognizes the importance of younger generations getting involved. “At Self-Help now, probably 50% of my 400-plus employees are from the X, Y, Z, and millennial generations,” she shared. This intergenerational collaboration is essential for sustaining the mission of the organization.
Chung’s advocacy extends beyond food security; she encourages seniors to actively participate in public meetings and advocate for their needs. “We have to build that it’s not us versus them: It’s all of us taking care of the homeless, elderly, children—fighting hunger, fighting poverty,” she stated passionately.
The challenges are daunting, yet Chung’s determination remains unwavering. “If you have a mission, you never stop fighting for what you believe in,” she said, echoing the lessons of her mentor, Beatrice Schiffman, who founded Self-Help in 1966.
As the community rallies around Chung’s efforts, her story serves as a vital reminder of the importance of support for underserved populations. The fight for resources and recognition continues, and Chung is at the forefront, urging everyone to amplify the voices of seniors who often suffer in silence.
Stay tuned as updates unfold regarding the ongoing advocacy for food security and the vital role of community organizations like Self-Help for the Elderly. San Franciscans are encouraged to support this mission and ensure that seniors receive the care and attention they desperately need.
