As Iowans age into their golden years, many face food insecurity. Sixty-three percent of senior households served by our Feeding America network are forced to choose between food and medical care. As we look towards the future, food-insecure seniors may grow to more than 8 million by 2050.

According to the U.S. Census, 9.3 percent of seniors are food insecure in Dallas County. Perry Lutheran Home/Spring Valley campus in Perry, Iowa is a community of care working to lower that statistic. As a recent partner of Food Bank of Iowa, they have filled the need by providing nourishing meals to home-bound elders in Perry and northern Dallas County.

“Our volunteers may be the only person an older person sees during the day,” Melissa Gannon, administrator, said. “Volunteers will help combat loneliness and isolation by forming friendships with meal recipients. They are also able to spot needs and help connect clients with appropriate resources. In addition, volunteers may also be a vital lifeline in the event of a medical emergency such as an accident or fall.”

Since partnering with Food Bank of Iowa, their team has served 212 meals.

“We are thankful for the opportunity to save money while buying handy items such as frozen meat, pasta, and produce. Our clients love it,” Rhonda Wheeldon, assistant dining experience director, said.

The current number of seniors who are food insecure has doubled since 2001. Because of these growing statistics, we are thankful to partner with amazing community partners like Perry Lutheran Home/Spring Valley Community in the fight against hunger.