Valley food banks reimagine pantries to help seniors hit hard by inflation
Two Valley food banks are reimagining their pantries to help seniors hit hard by inflation, expanding beyond traditional food boxes to offer market days, healthy meals served in group settings, breakfast and takeout options. Their leaders know nutritious meals support overall health and wellness.
The threat of hunger is acute in Arizona, which ranks 32nd in the nation for food insecurity among seniors. Last year, 12.8% of seniors in the state dealt with food insecurity, which is defined as someone who has had insufficient access to food to meet their basic needs in the past 12 months. The national average for seniors is 11.9%, according to America’s Health Rankings from United Health Foundation.
Banner Olive Branch Senior Center in the West Valley and Foothills Food Bank and Resourc...