Funded By:
Meal programs are usually subsidized through federal or local agencies, or through the sponsorship of churches and community groups. Although these subsidized programs are designed to meet the nutritional needs of low-income persons, elderly and disabled persons who have difficulty preparing their own meals, most are open to people of any income level. The charge for these meals will be small, if any, and dependant on an individual's income. These meals may be delivered to the individual’s home by organizations like “Meals on Wheels," or the individual may travel to another location such as a Senior Center where meals are served in a group setting. Meals are often included as part of other programs at Senior Centers or Adult Day Centers where a registered dietician is in charge of menus to ensure that proper nutrition is provided.
Meals
on Wheels
“Meals
on Wheels” is among one of the most well-known organizations
that provides hot and nutritious meals to those who are elderly
and/or disabled and who have difficilty preparing their own meals.
Meals are served fresh from Monday to Friday, including weekday
holidays. To cover the cost and maintain efficient service, the
program charges a small fee based on the individual's ability to
pay. However, specific requirements for availability of service
vary from region to region.
The Meals on Wheels Association of America web site will locate the available sites based on zip codes: http://www.mowaa.org/searchMealProgram.asp?mid=131¤tid=132&type=I
If you would like to find out if Meals-On-Wheels
is available in your region, you can also use the Elder
Care Locator, 800-677-1116 for toll-free
assistance to identify agencies that serve the aging population
anywhere in the United States. You can also call the Senior Center
nearest you to inquire about this program.
Food
Stamps
Food
Stamps is a national federally funded program that helps low-income
people who need assistance with the cost of buying food. You do
not necessarily have to be on welfare to qualify for Food Stamp
benefits. In fact, you may be eligible even if you hold a job. You
may qualify for food stamps if
(1) you have
low wages and you have few resources such as bank accounts and property,
(2) you buy and cook food for yourself and your family or share
a home with someone else,
(3) you are homeless.
The amount of food stamps you are eligible to receive is based on your income and property. If you meet the criteria, you will be given a bank-like account and a plastic card called the “Mass EBT Card.” The “Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card” is the identification card for the Food Stamp Program. You can use the EBT card at grocery stores, convenience stores, markets, co-ops, etc. with a pin number just like any other bank or credit card.
In order to apply, you need to fill out an application at your county Department of Social Services (DSS) office. Alternatively, the application is also available at your local Legal Services office through a project called the Food Stamps Outreach Project. If you are elderly, blind or disabled, you can also apply at your Social Security office. In addition to the application, proof of income amounts, property value, citizenship status, social security number, shelter costs, and information about work or school status are also required. If applicants are elderly or disabled, they may need to provide proof of medical expenses as well.
Community
Programs
Some
people have difficulty making ends meet. Many communities serve
a free meal(s) to low-income individuals throughout the week. Some
communities have a federal food distribution program and/or an emergency
food closet that people who need assistance can use. Information
about programs in your community can usually be found by contacting
your local Senior Center, local churches or Chamber of Commerce.
