By Lois Jasmer, Director of Business Development at Concierge Care Advisors
Supporting Low-Income Seniors: Making a Difference This Holiday Season
As I stroll through the grocery store, I’m reminded by the displays that everyone has a favorite holiday dish. For me, it’s cranberry sauce, whether it’s fresh or canned. Some might think, “Canned? Yuck!” But for many people, canned food is all they can afford. This time of year, we often think about the homeless population in Seattle, yet there’s another group that deserves attention—low-income seniors in our communities.
The average senior on Social Security receives just $1,404 a month. After paying for essentials like rent, gas, heat, and prescriptions, many seniors are left with little for food. Even those who own their homes may not have savings or a retirement fund. In previous decades, many women did not work outside the home, which means some seniors today have very limited Social Security income.
A friend I volunteer with shared a story about the Federal Way Senior Center. The center serves over 300 seniors each month through its food bank, meal programs, and activities, yet they’re struggling to meet the demand. Right now, they face a shortage of canned goods, making it difficult to support the seniors who rely on them for nutritious meals.
The Importance of Senior Centers in Our Community
Senior centers like the one in Federal Way are essential not only for their social and emotional support but also for the nutritional benefits they offer. Many seniors experience food insecurity, and it’s heartbreaking to see elderly clients with bare refrigerators or only cold cereal in their cupboards. Federal Way Senior Center offers a hot meal to anyone who visits, though some seniors can’t even afford the minimal $3 cost. Without donations and fundraisers, centers like these would struggle to survive.
As the “Silver Tsunami” of aging baby boomers continues, funding for senior meals and programs will become even more critical. The Federal Way Senior Center has already served nearly 8,200 meals through the third quarter—up by 2,500 meals compared to last year’s total. This surge in demand highlights a broader issue that will impact many seniors across the country.
Early Resources and Support for Low-Income Seniors
One solution to this challenge is connecting seniors with resources and guidance early on, before they reach a crisis point. As a Senior Transitional Specialist, I know that having access to food, housing, and social support can make a profound difference in a senior’s life. Imagine if senior centers had legacy programs where people could leave donations to support the centers they loved. This could provide much-needed resources to help seniors in need.
With the holiday season upon us, let’s remember the seniors in our community. The next time you pass the canned beans or cranberries in the grocery store, consider picking up an extra can or two to donate. Whether it’s to your local food bank or the Federal Way Senior Center at 4016 S 352nd St, Auburn, WA 98001, your contribution can brighten the holiday season for a senior in need.
Concierge Care Advisors: Helping You Support Low-Income Seniors
At Concierge Care Advisors, we are committed to supporting seniors and their families through life’s transitions, especially those facing financial hardship. If you or a loved one needs help connecting with local resources, our advisors are here to guide you. Contact us today to learn more about how we can provide the support and resources that make a meaningful difference in seniors’ lives.
Together, we can make the holiday season a little brighter for seniors who need it most.
