Food Insecurity Across Generations

Faye Conte, 3SquaresVT Advocate, Hunger Free Vermont

As fall turns to winter and Thanksgiving approaches, families and friends gather to share meals and celebrate. Amidst this celebration, hunger continues to rise in Vermont, and many populations are vulnerable to its effects. Nearly 14% of all Vermont households are food insecure and older Vermonters, age 60 or more, are a rapidly growing portion of this population. Senior hunger has risen nearly 70% in the last ten years. At a time in life when good nutrition is critical to maintain health and independence, many seniors living on fixed incomes are unable to afford fresh, healthy foods. 

The number of seniors in Vermont is quickly growing and some older Vermonters are more likely to be at risk of hunger. Those between the ages of 60 and 69 are more likely to be food insecure because they often lack access to other social benefits; baby boomers began turning 65 this year. Additionally, renters, seniors who are divorced, separated, or living with a grandchild, those living at or below the poverty line, those who did not graduate from high school and African-American or Hispanic seniors are at a greater risk.

Seniors experiencing food insecurity are more likely to have lower intakes of calories and major nutrients, and are significantly more likely to be in poor or fair health. Approximately 50% of all diseases impacting the elderly are due to poor nutritional intake. Food insecurity can lead to more hospital visits, increased illness, and limitations in activities of daily living. Proper nutrition helps seniors remain in their home longer and stay active members of their community.

As more of Vermont’s seniors struggle to make ends meet, the majority are not participating in the many programs available to help them stretch their food budgets and put more healthy food on the table. Only about 30% of eligible seniors participate in 3SquaresVT (formerly Food Stamps), a federal nutrition program which gives eligible households extra money for food. Seniors face many barriers to the program, including lack of information, lack of access, and stigma. The average monthly benefit for seniors is $150, and 90% receive more than $25. If all eligible seniors participate in 3SquaresVT, an additional 26,000 older Vermonters will be better able to afford nutritious meals. Seniors may also receive nutrition assistance through home delivered meals and community meal programs, along with thousands of other older Vermonters. Additionally, City Market’s Food For All program gives 3SquaresVT participants, along with those on permanent disability or the WIC program, a 10% discount. For more information about the FFA program, or to enroll, visit City Market’s Customer Service desk during your next visit.

Hunger Free Vermont is working closely with the Vermont Department for Children and Families (DCF) and with partners throughout the state like the Area Agencies on Aging, AARP, the United Way and City Market to increase participation in 3SquaresVT by reaching out to seniors and encouraging them to apply, as well as working to make the program more accessible and easy to use. Vermonters can learn first-hand about the program by taking November's 3SquaresVT Challenge. For more information about 3SquaresVT or to apply, please visit www.vermontfoodhelp.com or call 1-800-479-6151. Those over 60 can call the Senior HelpLine at 1-800-642-5119 for information and assistance with the many nutrition programs available to seniors.