According to AARP, 10,000 Americans turn 65 every day. This makes older adults fastest growing population in the nation. and tragically, according to Feeding America, they are the fastest growing food insecure population, too.
Older adults in Arizona face unique challenges when it comes to food access, including fixed incomes, limited mobility, and social isolation. Many are under-enrolled in SNAP due to stigma or confusion about eligibility. To address this, the Arizona Food Bank Network (AzFBN) advocates for policies that reduce barriers to food assistance.
In 2021, AzFBN supported the launch of the Elderly Simplified Application Project (ESAP), a streamlined SNAP certification process for older adults through the Arizona Department of Economic Security. Within six months, older adult participation in SNAP increased by 10%—five times the statewide average.
AzFBN also helps connect seniors to home-delivered meals, senior food distributions, and other community resources to ensure they can age with dignity and nourishment.
Where older adults find help today?
Area Agency on Aging locations are found throughout the state and in many areas offer both group (congregate) meal settings and facilitate Meals on Wheels.
The Commodity Senior Food Program is a monthly box program aimed to meet the needs of older adults.
The Senior Farmer Market Food Program allows for older adults that meet income requirements to claim vouchers to be used at participating farmer markets throughout the state.
SNAP is available for those who qualify. Those needing help with the application can locate an Assistor to walk them through the application and answer any questions along the way.
AzFBN is dedicated to ensuring that older adults throughout the state are aware of what is available to them. Below are resources that anyone can print and share!
Help us spread the word about SNAP and ESAP and the other resources available for older adults.
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