This Season, Let’s Remember: Nourishment Is a Right

As we gather in gratitude this holiday season, millions of older adults across the country are facing an unexpected hardship. The ongoing government shutdown has disrupted SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits, leaving many seniors uncertain about where their next meal will come from.

For those living on fixed incomes, this pause in food assistance is more than an inconvenience—it’s a direct threat to health, independence, and dignity. Food insecurity among older adults was already a growing concern before this disruption. Now, the stakes are even higher.

​Communities Are Stepping Up

Across the country, community organizations, food banks, and care providers are working tirelessly to fill the gap. From volunteer-run pantries to congregate meal sites at local senior centers, these grassroots efforts remind us that care begins with connection.

But the responsibility doesn’t stop there. Each of us can play a role in ensuring that no senior goes hungry this season. Whether it’s checking in on a neighbor, contributing to a local food drive, or sharing verified resources online, small acts of compassion can have a big impact.

​National Food Access Resources

If you or someone you serve is struggling with food access, these trusted national organizations can help:

• Feeding America – Find a Local Food Bank
  Connects you to food pantries and community distribution sites nationwide.
• Meals on Wheels America
  Home-delivered and congregate meal programs for older adults.
• ElderCare Locator (U.S. Administration for Community Living)
  Find local aging services, including nutrition and home-delivered meal programs.
• 211 Helpline (United Way)
  Call or search online to locate nearby food, housing, and emergency aid services.
• AARP Foundation SNAP Support
  Tools and assistance to help older adults navigate benefit interruptions and re-enrollment.
• National Council on Aging (NCOA) BenefitsCheckUp
  A confidential screening tool to identify nutrition and income-support programs for seniors.

​Our Call to Action

Let’s extend the spirit of the holidays beyond our own tables. If you’re part of a care team, community program, or family network, take a moment to:

• Share these links with older adults or caregivers who may need support.
• Organize a small food collection or donate to a trusted pantry in your community.
• Advocate for uninterrupted food access for seniors—because nourishment is not seasonal; it’s essential.

Together, we can ensure that the season of giving reaches those who need it most.

At Seniorverse, we believe that care is more than clinical—it’s human. Food sustains more than the body; it sustains dignity, independence, and connection. This season, let’s make sure every senior is seen, supported, and nourished.