Food insecurity rising among seniors

ALPENA, Mich. – A new study finds that nearly one in every six seniors in America faces the threat of hunger and not being properly nourished.

This applies to those who aren’t sure where their next meal is coming from and those who don’t have access to the healthiest possible food options.

Researchers in Michigan found rates of food insecurity among older adults more than doubled between 2007 to 2016.

Area organizations say that while the problem is prevalent, they are doing their part to make sure local seniors are getting what they need to survive.

“So we do have some programs through our agency that help older adults with food security issues, such as working with our local councils and commissions on aging to provide some nutrition programs such as Congregant meals and home delivered meals,” said Laurie Sauer Director at Region 9 Area Agency on Aging.

Staff at the Alcona County Commission on Aging said that the pandemic has added to this problem and suggest lending a helping hand to various organizations.

“We’re gonna do what we have to do locally, and that’s to continue to meet the needs of the people,” said ACCOA Executive Director Lenny Avery.”

“Just support you local food pantry, your local soup kitchen, support your local homeless shelter, those things go a long way to helping people who are less fortunate.”

If you’d like to help these organizations by donating or volunteering you can visit www.alconaseniors.org or www.nemcsa.org.