May is Older American’s Month, a time to celebrate the contributions of older Americans while also examining the hardships they may face. Older adults have spent years working, contributing to their communities, and building a future for younger generations. But unfortunately, thousands of older adults in our community are struggling to make ends meet.
For many older adults, living on a fixed income means making difficult decisions like choosing between medicine and meals or heat and groceries. Food insecurity among older adults can greatly affect their health and well-being, making it harder for them to live a healthy and fulfilling life.
The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) helps ease these difficult decisions by providing a reliable source of nutritious food every month. Through the USDA-funded program, income-eligible individuals aged 60 or older receive a 30-pound box of pantry staples — such as grains, canned meats, vegetables and fruits, juice, and more — ensuring they have the foundation for balanced meals.
"CSFP is a reliable source of various nutritious foods for older adults. These foods can be the building blocks for a healthy diet and can help them stretch their limited budgets. This program really helps serve a population in need.”
Amanda Salmons, Foodbank program coordinator
Each month, 1,700 CSFP food boxes are assembled at the Foodbank’s Stark County Campus. Volunteers often decorate the boxes with cheerful drawings to brighten the day of its recipient. The boxes are then distributed through food programs within the Foodbank’s network. Some are delivered directly to the homes of older adults who have health or transportation barriers, and some are delivered to residential buildings specifically for older adults.
Thank you for supporting the Foodbank and the older adults who have given so much to our community.