Simple, meaningful ways you can help older adults in the Portland-Vancouver metro area access nutritious meals and live with dignity during Hunger Action Month
Access to food is a basic human right.
But for too many older adults in the Portland-Vancouver metro area, that right is out of reach. Hunger and isolation persist, even though they are not inevitable. All people should be able to age with dignity.
Here’s the reality: 1 in 8 older adults in Oregon and Washington are in danger of going hungry.
And the pressures are mounting.
The Human Side of the Numbers
Eighty-six percent of Americans say they’re stressed about grocery prices, according to a recent Associated Press-NORC poll. More than half call it a major source of anxiety.
For older adults living on fixed incomes, that stress is constant. Our own survey this past year revealed that 58% of Meals on Wheels People recipients live on less than $1,660 a month. That makes balancing rent, utilities, medication, and healthy food almost impossible.
Linda, a neighbor in Tigard, reached out to us recently:
“I am 71, live alone, and receive SNAP benefits of $23 a month. As you can imagine, that doesn’t go very far. I live on my Social Security and a small pension that my husband left me. Together they barely cover my expenses. Between expenses and doctor co-pays, there’s not much left each month. Even one meal a day would be so helpful.”
Linda’s story is not unusual. It’s why we do what we do — and why this month matters.
Why September Matters
September is Hunger Action Month, a nationwide campaign to inspire people to act and raise awareness about hunger in America.
Here in our region, Meals on Wheels People serves over 1 million meals to nearly 9,000 older adults every year. Those meals are more than nourishment. They are wellness checks, smiles, and proof that someone cares.
Malnutrition among seniors costs the U.S. an estimated $51 billion a year in health care expenses. Yet Meals on Wheels People can feed a senior for an entire year for less than the cost of one day in a hospital.
This month, we’re asking you to join us. Whether you have a few hours, a spare vehicle, or the ability to make a monthly gift, there’s a way for you to help end senior hunger.
5 Ways to Take Action This Month
1. Become a Sustainers Circle Member
Monthly giving is the backbone of our work. Your recurring gift ensures we never have a waiting list — not in September, not ever. These donations allow us to plan ahead, respond to emergencies, and serve more seniors in need — all year long. It’s a simple and powerful way to make a lasting difference in your community. Join the Sustainers Circle today.
2. Volunteer Your Time
Deliver meals, serve lunch at our dining centers, or lend a hand in the kitchen. Remote opportunities are also available through our Friendly Chats program, so be sure to check out experiences that interest you.
You can also get your business or organization involved. Sponsor a meal route, organize a corporate volunteer day, or host a fundraiser. Businesses have incredible power to make change — we can help you get started.
Learn more about our current volunteer opportunities.
3. Advocate for seniors
Stay informed and speak up. Our nation’s senior population is growing exponentially, outpacing the resources available to serve vulnerable older adults and putting their health and well-being in jeopardy. Meals on Wheels People’s services are a proven and effective public-private partnership that promotes health and improves quality of life for our community’s seniors.
Learn ways to advocate, sign up for our newsletter, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn to get the latest news, share stories, and amplify the needs of older adults in our community.
4. Turn your wheels into meals
Have a car, truck, or RV you no longer need? Donate it. It’s quick, it’s tax-deductible, and it helps keep our wheels — and meals — moving. Learn more about how to donate a vehicle.
5. talk about senior hunger
Conversations spark change. Tell your friends and family that 1 in 8 older adults locally are food insecure — and that together, we can change that.
Every Action Counts
However you choose to help this month, know this: When you support Meals on Wheels People, you’re part of a movement to ensure no older adult in our community goes hungry or feels forgotten.
Let’s make sure everyone can age with dignity, health, and connection.
