Upward Bound Senior Villa was created in 1999 to help seniors who had little-to-no income by sheltering and feeding them. Though started by the First United Methodist Church of Santa Monica across the street, this non-profit (501c) is strictly nondenominational. It currently houses over 90 low-income seniors. Residents pay half of their monthly income for furnished one-bedroom apartments. In addition to an outdoor garden that many residents help maintain, the group assists with food, medical and transportation costs.