Opinion: Feeding Hungry Mission Viejo Seniors This Holiday

It's almost Christmas. Many Mission Viejo residents are looking for ways to help the less fortunate in their communities, and Margot Ferron has found a way.

This active volunteer has been making table arrangements for our seniors over the past year, and now she wants to do more.

"This is something that has been gnawing at me," she said.

So she put together the following message that explains why hunger is a problem for some Mission Viejo seniors:

We feed the homeless, honor our military, raise millions for cancer research, have can drives to stock our food pantries, but what are we doing to feed our seniors who are homebound or on fixed incomes? Are you looking for something different to do this holiday season? Please reach out and help our seniors who desperately need assistance.

More than 9 million seniors face the threat of hunger in the United States today. In fact, the U.S. Census Bureau’s estimate of seniors living in poverty is 16.1 percent of Americans 65 years and older. The economy has affected millions of older Americans who counted on retirement funds and their savings. The down-trodden economy has significantly impacted their lives plus it has gravely impacted the programs that feed them.

Most seniors won’t ask for help and some just don’t even know where to turn for help. According to the AARP, California ranks 18^th among all states at risk for senior hunger.

Imagine the agony of trying to either pay your rent, buy medications or find healthy foods. Various health restrictions make it even harder for our seniors with diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, salt restrictions and the like to eat healthy. It is difficult for them to drive, stand in food lines and prepare meals.

In South Orange County, this past year more than 63,000 seniors depended on programs and services offered by Age Well Senior Services. Age Well was there to assist—whether with a ride to the grocery store or medical appointment, participation in an activity at a senior center or offering a hot meal at home.

To help our seniors who desperately need assistance you can go to the , 24932 Veterans Way, Mission Viejo, 92692 and take a card from the tree. A gift to a senior is a hug that warms their hearts. Drop in to just have a warm chat. You might just lift someone’s spirits—and your own.

Please support our local Age Well and Meals on Wheels Programs at Norman Murray Community Center.   Together we can give our seniors the quality of life they deserve.  You can also donate by going to MyAgeWell.org or call (949) 470-3062.  A $25 tax deductible donation will feed a senior for a month.  Your contribution is greatly appreciated.