Without a doubt this time of year can be the happiest, unless you are hungry and alone. Then every day is a struggle. Imagine the agony of trying to buy gifts or paying your rent, buying medications and healthy foods.
The number of seniors facing hunger in this country is staggering. It is increasing silently and severely. Most seniors won’t ask for help and some just don’t even know where to turn. According to the AARP, California ranks 18th among all states at risk for senior hunger. The U.S. Census Bureau’s estimate of Americans 65 years and older living in poverty is 16.1 percent.
It is difficult for seniors to stand in food lines or even prepare meals. Health restrictions make it even harder for our seniors with diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure to eat healthy.
Find out what's happening in Mission Viejowith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Age Well Senior Services and Meals on Wheels Programs is a nonprofit organization feeding seniors in our community. It is not a government agency. It depends on donations and grants from the community. For the first time, Meals on Wheels of Mission Viejo has a waiting list due to lack of funds. In fact, they had to eliminate weekend and holiday meals.
This Christmas, no senior should go without food. You can help by going to the Norman Murray Community Center and taking a donation card from the little, gold Christmas tree near Norm’s Cafe. A gift to a senior is a hug that warms their hearts. Lift someone’s spirits—and your own.
Find out what's happening in Mission Viejowith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Please support our local Age Well Senior Services and Meals on Wheels Programs. Together we can give our seniors the quality of life they deserve. You can also donate by going to MyAgeWell.org or call (949) 470-3062. A $25 tax deductible donation will feed a senior for a month.
No senior should ever have to go without food. The need to feed is an every day need not just during the holidays!
