Facebook Pixel - PageView Event

Older Adults Like Maricela Turn to Food Bank Partner Agencies for a Lifeline

Older Adults Like Maricela Turn to Food Bank Partner Agencies for a Lifeline

Working with a fixed income, Maricela turns to a Food Bank partner agency for food assistance.

Imagine living on just $600 per month in Los Angeles County. Rent, utilities, transportation, medical bills, medicine and the cost of food are not included. Is it feasible?

For Maricela and her husband, it simply has to be. As two retired older adults, they have to make ends meet with what they receive from their retirement benefits, and that means scrutinizing every purchase. Every now and then, they may get the opportunity to pick up an odd job, either as a handyperson, gardener or babysitter, that will add a bit of extra income to their already tight budget.

However, Maricela has found something that helps her put food on the table: attending the International Families Association’s food distribution in Glendale. The Association, a proud Los Angeles Regional Food Bank partner agency, hosts weekly food distributions every Monday, helping individuals and families like Maricela consistently put food on the table.

“Everything is expensive at the grocery store,” Maricela said. “I go with $100, and I come back home with just a small bag [of groceries] and there went my $100.”

Hunger Among Older Adults

Older adults are among the most vulnerable populations to struggle with food insecurity. The rising costs of food, rent, utilities and everyday necessities are making it difficult for seniors to survive on a fixed income. Many opt to skip meals or perhaps medications to make it through the month. 

Without proper nutrition, more older adults risk increased disability, decreased resistance to infections, weakened immune systems and declined mental health. Older adults must maintain a nutritious diet, as doctors often prescribe medicine, assuming that patients reach a healthy caloric intake threshold.

When you donate to the LA Regional Food Bank, you’re helping provide older adults with essential food items that may be out of reach. Consider donating to the Food Bank today.

Join the fight against hunger!

If you are in a position to do so, consider donating to the Food Bank and supporting our programs.

More Stories from the LA Regional Food Bank

How the Food Bank Fights Hunger During Summer Break

Hunger touches every corner of Los Angeles County—but so does hope. Learn more about ways to get involved with the Food Bank.

Fighting Hunger on Campus: How the Food Bank Helps Close the Gap in College Campuses

As many young adults seek a better life through a college education, hunger shouldn’t be a problem. The Food Bank is here to help.

A Food Pantry Offering Young Adults, Like Derrick, Food and Hope

Derrick was close to living on the streets before hearing about Covenant House, an LA Regional Food Bank partner agency.

May is CalFresh Awareness Month: Fighting Hunger in Los Angeles County

May is CalFresh Awareness Month, a time to highlight an important anti-hunger program that helps families access the nutritious food they need to thrive.

Stay Connected

Sign up for the latest in our fight against hunger.