Seniors

If you run into some doctor bills or different things, it's a real strain on anyone's budget. I've cut down the portions that I consume from time to time, and I'll do it again if I have to. Elvin, 83

Ozarks seniors are forced to make tough choices

One in six OFH clients are AGE 60 or older

That’s more than 40,000 seniors in southwest Missouri who struggle with the complex issue of hunger. Food insecurity is most prevalent in seniors who are women, widows — or those who are divorced, separated or never married — minorities, those living alone and those older than age 85. Unfortunately, the need for emergency food assistance among seniors is expected to rise as baby boomers become older. And oftentimes, transportation barriers and physical limitations prevent low-income seniors from visiting a Food Bank member food pantry or site.

Pride is another limitation Ozarks Food Harvest works to overcome with senior clients in its network. Serving at-risk seniors at a comfortable location, specifically targeting this age group, The Food Bank attempts to overcome any embarrassment associated with charitable assistance. You can help Ozarks Food Harvest supply meals or groceries for seniors so they will no longer be forced to choose between prescriptions, heating or cooling and food.

Together we can solve senior hunger

seniors are ESPECIALLY vulnerable

Although food insecurity affects people of all ages, seniors are particularly vulnerable because they have unique nutritional needs related to aging and medical conditions. Many end up forgoing the foods they need to stay healthy. The Spotlight on Senior Health: Adverse Health Outcomes of Food Insecure Older Americans report found that these seniors are more likely to have a lower nutrient intake and be at a higher risk for chronic health conditions and depression. Can you help America’s Greatest Generation?

Donate in honor of a loved one

Senior Programs

  • Senior Food

    Supplementing the diets of low-income seniors with nutritious USDA food at 33 locations across the Ozarks, this program provides more than 3,600 eligible seniors with healthy food through senior centers, churches and pantries.

    Read More
  • SNAP

    Ozarks Food Harvest conducts SNAP, or food stamp, outreach across 28 Missouri counties to educate those who are eligible to receive benefits about the application process.

    Read More
  • Mobile Food Pantry

    Ozarks Food Harvest's pantry on wheels delivers bulk loads of food to central locations in rural areas, or to member food pantries that do not have adequate freezer or cooler space.

    Read More