September marks National Preparedness Month, coinciding with hurricane season. For many seniors living at home and struggling with food security, floods can lead to severe isolation.
Citymeals on Wheels is stepping in to help. This organization delivers around two million meals every year to over 20,000 older New Yorkers, with more than half of recipients being over 80 years old. In a Bronx warehouse, the team hurriedly packs emergency food kits, preparing for the next big storm.
Project manager Steven Gomez emphasizes the urgency. “The people really need the food,” he says, noting how impactful these meals are for their recipients.
Citymeals on Wheels is set to distribute nearly 20,000 food kits by mid-October, each filled with shelf-stable meals that are ready to eat. Given the rise in extreme weather events in New York, officials highlight the importance of these preparations.
The roots of this emergency meal plan can be traced back to the aftermath of 9/11. Rachel Sherrow, chief operating officer, recalls how the tragedy taught them the importance of being proactive. “When parts of Manhattan were shut down, many homebound older adults couldn’t access food,” she explains.
Now, every meal kit symbolizes more than just food; it represents care and support. “Somebody is looking out for them,” Sherrow says.
Recent studies show that older adults are more vulnerable during disasters. According to research, nearly 30% of seniors live alone, facing greater risks during emergencies. This highlights the vital role organizations like Citymeals on Wheels play in ensuring that no one feels abandoned during tough times.
For more information on preparing for emergencies, you can explore resources from organizations such as FEMA.
Source link
