It’s no secret that families across Los Angeles County are struggling to make ends meet due to the rising cost of everyday essentials. Seniors are among the most vulnerable, as they often struggle to make it to the end of the month with a fixed income, forcing many to choose between paying medical bills or having a third meal in the day.

Milagro and her family seek food assistance at one of the hundreds of partner agencies across Los Angeles County that distribute food from the LA Regional Food Bank. Without these food pantries, families like Milagro’s would not be able to receive the nutritious food they need to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Hunger among seniors is a serious problem, as recent reports from the American Society for Nutrition (ASN) state that older adults who faced food insecurity experienced quicker cognitive declines in comparison to their food-secure counterparts. Those food-insecure seniors are more likely to struggle with malnutrition, depression and physical functioning impediments, leading to higher medical bills to care for these issues or worse. 

Proper nutrition is vital for seniors as it helps decrease resistance to infections, weakened immune systems and declined mental health.

Nutritious Food for a Better Life

For over 50 years, the Food Bank has provided food to communities in need in Los Angeles County. For decades, it has focused on providing nutritious food; about 97% of the food distributed by the Food Bank is considered nutritious.

Food recipients can typically expect fresh fruits and vegetables gleaned, sorted and packed at one of the Food Bank’s warehouses, as well as shelf-stable items like rice, legumes, and canned goods. Also included at some distributions are dairy products, eggs, and a pack of protein that may include chicken, beef, pork or shrimp. Depending on the family size, the items distributed can last about one to two weeks.

Your support to the LA Regional Food Bank goes a long way to helping families like Milagro’s. Consider making a donation to the Food Bank.