Senior Resources broadens its reach to feed seniors in aftermath of floods

October 15, 2015

COLUMBIA, SC – Senior Resources will deliver non-perishable food to local seniors who have been affected by the flooding in the wake of Hurricane Joaquin.

The agency is collecting food items that are easy for seniors to open, easy to chew, and do not require heating or refrigeration. Examples include ready-to-eat cans of pasta, tuna or soup that have pull-tab tops, chewy granola bars or cereal bars, powdered milk or juice boxes.

Donations are being accepted at Senior Resources’ office at 2817 Millwood Ave. in Columbia.

Gas station gift cards and monetary donations are also requested to help offset the cost of delivery. Monetary donations can be made online at seniorresourcesinc.org/donate-now.

“We were able to provide for all our Meals on Wheels clients during the flooding with a combination of hot, frozen and shelf-stable meals,” said Pam Dukes, Senior Resources Executive Director. “Now, in the coming weeks, we would like to expand our reach to serve seniors who might not need ongoing meal service, but could use some help as they recover from the flood.”

Seniors age 55 or older, or their caregivers, can request food delivery by calling Senior Resources at 803-252-7734. Volunteers will be needed to sort, package and deliver the food later this week. Volunteers can sign up by calling 803-252-7734 or emailing [email protected].

“South Carolina ranks 8th – worst in the nation when it comes to food insecurity among seniors,” Dukes said. “While we are always working hard to serve our senior population, it’s more critical in a time of crisis that we work together to meet the needs of this vulnerable population.”