Senior Hunger is real, and, according to information provided by the Meals on Wheels Association, 8.8 million of America’s seniors or nearly 1 in 6 may not know where their next meal is coming from. Programs like Meals on Wheels are critical to solving this national crisis. In the State of Virginia over 124,000 seniors are struggling with hunger and only 22 percent are receiving help through Meals on Wheels. There is strong evidence that seniors who receive proper nutrition on a consistent basis are healthier and more content.
Senior Services of Alexandria delivers two meals a day to homebound seniors, those suffering from chronic medical conditions, and others who may just be recovering from surgery. These meals are delivered 365 days a year because of the loyal dedication of many volunteers, the generous financial support of the City of Alexandria’s Department of Community and Human Services’ Division of Aging and Adult Services, and numerous local businesses, faith groups, and community foundations. Thanks to the generosity of the Ronald M. Bradley Foundation, Meals on Wheels clients receive special holiday meals throughout the year.
SSA delivers approximately 45,000 meals per year to seniors in the City of Alexandria. While many older residents are receiving this critical assistance, we know that there are more eligible seniors in the City who may not be eating properly and who would benefit from the Meals on Wheels program.
There is no income threshold requirement to qualify as a Meals on Wheels client. Alexandria City residents who are 60 and older and certified as homebound may receive meals under the Division of Aging and Adult Services’ program. SSA also provides meals to 60+ adults who are recovering from surgery, returning home from rehabilitation or find it difficult to shop and prepare meals for themselves. The cost for SSA Direct meals is $10 a day for a hot and a cold meal. Meals are prepared by Jeffery’s Catering, a local Alexandria caterer, and meet the State of Virginia dietary guidelines for seniors.
If you are a senior who might benefit from this type of program or if you know of a senior who is in need, you may contact Senior Services of Alexandria at 703-836-4414, ext. 12 or email at mealsonwheels@seniorservicesalex.org or the City of Alexandria’s Division on Aging and Adult Services at 703-746-5999. Meals on Wheels Association’s motto is “So No Senior Goes Hungry.” That is a goal worth achieving.
The author of this article is the Director of Community Outreach Senior Services of Alexandria