LOCAL AGENCY HELPS SENIORS WITH FOOD NEEDS/LOSS OF SNAP BENEFITS IMPACTING SENIORS

Seniors in the Tampa Bay area will feel the impact of the federal government shutdown in November with the loss of SNAP benefits. It’s estimated that more than 39,000 seniors (age 60+) in Pasco and Pinellas counties depend on SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance program) to purchase groceries.

The Area Agency on Aging Pasco-Pinellas is gearing up to help seniors deal with potential food shortages in a variety of ways. “We are very concerned about how the lack of SNAP benefits will impact seniors,” said AAAPP’s Executive Director Ann Marie Winter. “This is their most basic need–food.”

The agency’s Helpline is anticipating an increase in calls from seniors requiring food assistance. Helpline staff have the latest information on local nutrition programs for seniors, food banks and pop-up food distributions. AAAPP has also set aside emergency funding to help seniors in crisis situations.

The AAAPP Helpline numbers are: 1-800-963-5337 or 727-217-8111.

AAAPP also advocated for seniors with State of Florida officials and was instrumental in gaining additional temporary food options for seniors. Seniors on SNAP will now be able to receive meals at congregate meal sites at local senior centers.

“We don’t know how long this is going to last,” said Winter. “But AAAPP will continue to look for ways to help our seniors through this difficult time.”