‘55% of our (food pantry) population is 65+’: Number of seniors in poverty rises

Summary

The aging population in Erie County is a growing concern, with a staggering 23.1% increase in the 65 and older demographic over the past decade. This rise has led to a spike in poverty among older adults, with Erie, Niagara, and Chautauqua counties having the highest poverty rates for seniors in New York State. Resurrection Life Food Pantry in Cheektowaga has adapted to serve this growing population by offering drive-thru and delivery services. A 2023 report by the Center for an Urban Future indicates that 9.8% of Erie County's older adults live in poverty. AARP New York is actively working to raise awareness of available resources and support for the over 175,000 seniors in Erie County.

Takeaways

• 👴 The aging population in Erie County is a significant concern, with the 65 and older demographic growing by 231% over the past decade.
• 📈 Poverty rates among older adults in Erie, Niagara, and Chautauqua counties are the highest in New York State.
• 🛒 Resurrection Life Food Pantry in Cheektowaga has adapted to serve the growing elderly population by offering drive-thru and delivery services.
• 🏠 The pantry has expanded its facilities to better accommodate the needs of older visitors.
• 🍲 The primary mission of the food pantry is to alleviate food insecurity among the elderly, aiming to ensure that no one suffers from hunger.
• 📊 According to a 2023 report, 9.8% of Erie County's older adults live in poverty, indicating a substantial need for support.
• 📈 There is an increased need for food assistance and SNAP benefits among the elderly population.
• 🗣 AARP New York is actively seeking ways to support the over 175,000 seniors in Erie County, emphasizing the importance of community involvement.
• 🔍 The state director of AARP, New York, points out that the main issue is not a lack of options but a lack of awareness about the available resources for seniors.
• 📢 Efforts are being made to raise awareness and ensure that eligible seniors are informed about the assistance programs available to them.

Q & A

What is the focus of the report presented in the video?

The report focuses on the rising number of older adults in Erie County and the challenges they face, particularly poverty and food insecurity.

What is the percentage increase of the 65 and older population in Erie County over the past decade?

The 65 and older population in Erie County has grown by 23.1% over the past decade.

What counties in New York are experiencing the highest poverty rates among older adults?

Outside of New York City, Erie, Niagara, and Chautauqua counties have the highest poverty rates among older adults.

How did the Resurrection Life Food Pantry adapt its services during the pandemic to assist older adults?

The Resurrection Life Food Pantry offered drive-thru and delivery options during the pandemic to better serve older adults who could not stand in line for extended periods.

What is the primary mission of the Resurrection Life Food Pantry?

The primary mission of the Resurrection Life Food Pantry is to ensure that nobody suffers from food insecurity, especially in the older adult population.

What percentage of Erie County's older adults live in poverty, according to the 2023 report by the Center for an Urban Future?

According to the 2023 report, 9.8% of Erie County's older adults live in poverty.

What is a common barrier preventing older adults from accessing help, as mentioned in the video?

A common barrier is that many older adults are hesitant to ask for help, even though many need it.

How is AARP New York addressing the needs of the growing senior population in Erie County?

AARP New York is working to raise awareness about available resources for older adults and to ensure they feel at home in their communities.

What is one major problem preventing seniors from accessing benefits in New York State?

The major problem is a lack of awareness among seniors about their eligibility for benefits.

Where can older adults in Erie County get more information about the assistance they may be eligible for?

Older adults can contact AARP New York or Erie County Senior Services to find out what assistance they may be eligible for.