LAS VEGAS, Nev. – A study from UNLV highlights a worrying issue: 18% of seniors in Clark County face food insecurity. This means many older adults struggle to get enough food or eat balanced meals.
Ian McDonough, Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Economics at UNLV, explains that this data comes from seniors’ responses regarding their worries about food shortages. He emphasizes that the situation in Southern Nevada is particularly serious, worse than the national average.
“When we talk to families directly, rather than relying on general national data, we find the problem is more severe than most people realize,” McDonough shares. “It’s troubling to think that so many households here are constantly facing hunger.”
To combat this issue, Three Square, a local food bank, has launched several programs aimed at helping seniors. One of the key programs is the Golden Grocery Program. This initiative provides fresh fruits, proteins, and whole grains to seniors once a month.
If seniors cannot leave their homes, Three Square offers home grocery delivery. They also provide free transportation options for those without access to rides. Additionally, seniors can enjoy free hot meals at various Clark County libraries five days a week.
For more information about these programs, visit Three Square’s website.
