Senior adults are often referred to as the “hidden hungry.”
It is estimated that over 8 million seniors, 60 and older, face the threat of hunger in the US. North Carolina is ranked 11th in the nation for the number of seniors experiencing food insecurity.
In Davidson County, senior adults, 60 and older, make up nearly 25% of the total population and more than one-third are experiencing food insecurity on a regular basis.
With the estimate of 8.6 million seniors facing the threat of hunger and NC ranking 11th for the number of seniors experiencing food insecurity, nearly 50% of seniors in Davidson County live below the Federal Poverty Level. The primary source of income for senior adults, age 60 and older, is Social Security, leaving them at a greater risk of food insecurity. Seniors often go without food in order to meet other vital living expenses.
We play a critical role in meeting a basic need for hundreds of individuals and families each year, targeting senior hunger. We are the front-line support mechanism for providing monthly groceries to over 700 senior adults in more than 450 households who are struggling with food insecurity on a regular basis in Davidson County. We distribute over 340,000 pounds of food each year.
The average age of the individuals we serve is 72, with a monthly income of less than $1,000. The ramifications of food insecurity are clear. Unmet needs for adequate food and the proper nutrition are strong and detrimental forces shaping older adult health. The more food Pastor’s Pantry can put in the hands of seniors, the healthier they can be. It cost more than $1,400 to feed a senior for one year.
