“I know the second Wednesday of every month, I’m always right there at the doorway, waiting.”
When it comes to accessing nutritious food, seniors face unique challenges like health problems, fixed incomes, and a lack of access to transportation. The Food Shuttle’s Grocery Bags for Seniors program works to alleviate these challenges by delivering bags of food right to the door of senior neighbors in partnership with 40 housing sites and religious groups. Each bag contains fresh produce, healthy snacks, and nonperishable foods and can provide up to eight nutritious meals.
Did you know that 9% of seniors in North Carolina are at risk of Hunger?
Rose is one of 1,828 seniors served by this program. She moved to Raleigh 13 years ago after her retirement and has been receiving grocery bags for four years. She no longer has a car, making accessing food more difficult. Before Grocery Bags for Seniors, she would have to rely on family members or other people to drive her to the grocery store. “It’s very nice that you think of the seniors and bring them this stuff,” shares Rose. “You know, many people don’t have cars anymore. Like, I had a car, but now I don’t, so I’m just grateful that they come to the door and deliver.”
When asked about her favorite thing to receive in her grocery bags, Rose shares how much she enjoys the fresh vegetables that she receives: “Collard greens, sweet peas, broccoli, and all that stuff…it’s good and it’s also healthy!” She explains that she appreciates the variety included in the bags each month, and that they help her to eat healthier and try new foods.
Did you know that 63% of senior households served by the Feeding America Network are forced to choose between paying for food and paying for medical care?
Rose also enjoys interacting with the volunteers that drop off her groceries: “I love the people that come. They’re very courteous, and they do a great job. I’m glad that they are here.”
She continues, “I know the second Wednesday of every month, I’m always right there at the doorway, waiting.”
We are so grateful to Rose for sharing her experiences with Grocery Bags for Seniors, and for the many dedicated staff members, volunteers, and donors that make this wonderful program possible. If you are interested in serving neighbors like Rose, you can learn more about this program and volunteering opportunities here.