RSF couple donates money to help seniors

Senior Community Centers received a $3 million gift to buy property for a facility in downtown San Diego to serve low-income senior citizens, it was announced Tuesday.

The contribution will be used to create the Gary and Mary West Senior Wellness Center, named after the Rancho Santa Fe couple who gave the money, according to the nonprofit Senior Community Centers.

The center, which will be at Fourth Avenue and Beech Street, will offer nutritious meals, health and social services, education and job training, computer access and activities.

“This facility will transform the traditional senior center into a 21st century hub for innovative services that help seniors living at or near poverty prolong their independence, enhance their quality of life and promote their overall health,’’ said Paul Downey, the chief executive officer of Senior Wellness Center.

The gift, the largest in the group’s history, was announced Tuesday at a news conference attended by Councilman Kevin Faulconer.