In 2011, almost one in every 12 Americans above the age of 60 was food insecure. That represents 4.8 million seniors nationwide, which is more than double the number of food insecure seniors in 2001. Food insecurity among seniors has increased substantially since the start of the Great Recession. Compared to 2007, the number of food insecure seniors was 50% higher in 2011. This dramatic increase in need has had and will continue to have profound impacts on the demand for nutrition assistance. A Feeding America study found that in 2009 over half of seniors aged 65+ accessing food pantries were recurrent clients, meaning they have used a pantry every month for at least 12 months. Given the nationwide increase in the number of seniors struggling with food insecurity and the need for ongoing food assistance among many seniors, the National Foundation to End Senior Hunger believes it is imperative to protect and strengthen nutrition programs to support healthy aging.
Source: National Foundation to End Senior Hunger, 5/22/13, Senior Hunger
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