When a recipient sees a person—outside of their own family structure—who is concerned for their welfare and is motivated by love and concern, the effect is powerful. To donate your time and money transforms and elevates us all. Every meal, every visit, every dollar builds understanding, compassion and community.
Senior hunger is a big concern for North Carolina. In fact 18% of seniors in our state struggle with hunger and 32% are living in or near poverty*. For our recipients who are ill or are home recovering from surgery we are one of very few options to get a nutritious meal while they recuperate.
Beyond the issue of hunger consider the impact of the economic and social benefits of the elderly staying in their homes. As of 2011 the monthly cost of assisted living care averages $3,270 per month. That’s $39,240 per year, and the costs keep rising by approximately 3.4% a year. Compare that to a year of meals from Friendship Trays—only $1,658.40.
When seniors can stay in their home it keeps them healthy, promotes recovery if they are ill, gives them dignity and independence, and is far safer and cheaper than a hospital stay. A one-day stay in the hospital is the equivalent of a year of meals. Plus it extends and improves the quality of life for seniors.
*Source: MOW national, Brown University’s Center for Gerontology and Healthcare Research Study commissioned by AARP Foundation