Program seeks 2,600 new seniors to add to its food program
To help reduce the nearly 43 percent of people who are food insecure in southeast Michigan, Focus: HOPE is increasing its effort to expand the monthly food program for seniors.
“With rising food prices and high energy costs for the winter ahead, more seniors may need food assistance – and we can help meet that need,” said Focus: HOPE CEO Portia Roberson. “Each month, seniors in Detroit, plus 159 communities, can receive a box of groceries to stock their pantries with shelf staples.”
In partnership with federal and state agencies, and together with more than 250 community partners, Focus: HOPE distributes food boxes to over 42,000 older adults each month.
While Focus: HOPE is based in Detroit, the agency serves all communities in Wayne, Oakland, Macomb and Washtenaw counties. That means residents in Detroit and Highland Park, Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti, the Grosse Pointes, Downriver, Taylor and beyond can receive access to food options from Focus: HOPE.
Unlike many food programs that provide one-time meals; this program focuses on supplementing senior pantries with items like milk, cereal and canned goods that can be used throughout the entire month. “Since our involvement with the Commodity Supplemental Food Program in 1971, we’ve worked diligently to expand the pilot senior program into a permanent nationwide effort with lasting impact. We are grateful to the USDA and are committed to continuing our legacy to serve our community,” she said.
Contents of the monthly box include:
- Cheese
- Milk (e.g. condensed and/or dry)
- Pasta/grain (e.g., spaghetti; rice)
- Cereal or oatmeal
- Protein
- Meat (e.g., canned beef; canned chicken)
- Vegetables and soup (e.g., green beans; vegetable soup)
- Fruits (e.g., fruit cocktail; apricots)
- Juice (e.g., grape; apple; orange)
Apply to Receive Free Food
Seniors age 60 and older living in Wayne, Oakland, Macomb or Washtenaw counties can apply for the monthly Food for Seniors Program by calling 313-494-4600, emailing food@focushope.edu or filling out this form: https://bit.ly/3D8YFzl
Volunteer Needed
Volunteers are needed to pack and help distribute meals to our seniors as a part of our Food for Seniors program in Wayne, Macomb, Oakland, and Washtenaw Counties. If you or your company is interested in volunteering to this heart-warming cause contact 313-494-4270 or volunteer@focushope.edu.
To learn more about Focus: HOPE Food for Seniors Program, visit https://www.focushope.edu/programs/food-for-seniors/
For more information, visit www.focushope.edu.
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