Starting in November, older adults in your family circle who receive SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits will be affected by a lack of program funding.
Over 8 million older adults in the U.S. currently receive SNAP benefits, which help them meet their food needs.
Fortunately, other food assistance resources are available. The following is a curated a list of six resources:
- Food Finder has an interactive map which shows food pantries and free food assistance programs.
- The National Hunger Hotline. This is a free, nationwide referral line (run by Hunger Free America for USDA) that connects people with nearby food resources like food pantries, meal sites, food banks and with government nutrition programs. Monday-Friday 8am-8pm EST, call 1-866-3-HUNGRY (1-866-348-6479) or 1-877-8-HAMBRE (1-877-842-6273). Information is available in English and Spanish.
- Findhelp.org provides location specific lists of food pantries as well as financial assistance, medical care, and other free or reduced-cost help.
- Search the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development HUD based on zip code and need, e.g., āfood pantriesā to find local resources.
- Meals on Wheels America helps adults 60+ who have mobility challenges that make it hard to shop for food, prepare meals or socialize with others. Age requirements and eligibility may vary by area and provider. Search Meals on Wheels to find zip code based resources.
- Feeding America Food Bank Locator: Find local community food pantries, meal programs, community gardens and government nutrition assistance.
If you have the means, consider donating to your local food bank or reaching out to sponsor an individual or family in your community. Someoneās mom or dad or child could be fed because of your kindness.
