URGENT UPDATE: Anni Chung, the influential CEO of Self-Help for the Elderly, is making headlines as she fights for the rights and well-being of Asian seniors in San Francisco. With the organization recently recognized as one of the 2025 San Franciscans of the Year, Chung emphasizes that Asian seniors must not suffer “in silence” as they face mounting challenges, including cuts to essential food programs.
Chung has led Self-Help since 1981, transforming its annual budget from $1 million to an astonishing $34 million. This remarkable growth has enabled the nonprofit to serve over 40,000 seniors, many of whom are low-income immigrant elders grappling with language barriers. Chung’s efforts have earned her the nickname “Mother Teresa of Chinatown,” reflecting her deep commitment to this vulnerable community.
In an exclusive interview, Chung expressed her gratitude for the recognition but insisted that the success of Self-Help is a collective achievement. “It’s really not about me,” she stated. “It’s all my staff, volunteers, and supporters who make this possible.”
Chung’s work has been pivotal in addressing cultural sensitivities vital to serving Asian seniors. “We focus on family-oriented values that respect the elderly,” she said. “This is not just about feeding them; it’s about making them feel at home.” A recent initiative established a senior center in District 11, which is 56% Asian and previously lacked dedicated services for this demographic.
However, the community faces urgent threats as funding for food programs is being cut. Chung highlighted the critical situation, noting that many seniors do not receive even one full meal a day. Despite these hardships, she remains resolute, stating, “We don’t easily give up.” She has partnered with Mayor Daniel Lurie and the Crankstart Foundation, which recently allocated $18 million for emergency food cards to support struggling families.
The emotional toll of rising anti-Asian hate has further complicated Chung’s mission. “It was hard to accept that we’re not part of the community,” she reflected. “We must fight against this narrative—it’s all of us taking care of each other.” Her vision is clear: empower seniors to voice their needs in public forums and advocate for necessary changes.
Chung also pointed to a positive trend—youth engagement. With over 400 employees, she noted that nearly half are from younger generations, eager to contribute to the mission. “When something bad happens, something good always follows,” she said, highlighting the resilience and unity within the community.
As Chung continues her advocacy, she urges San Franciscans to support the cause. “We need to bring senior stories into the mainstream,” she stated. “Seniors often feel treated like aliens or enemies. Our culture tends to suffer in silence, and that must change.”
The fight for the rights and dignity of Asian seniors in San Francisco is ongoing, and Chung is at the forefront, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs addressed. As challenges mount, the community is encouraged to rally behind this vital cause.
For more details on Anni Chung’s impactful work and how you can help, stay tuned for updates.
