What does hunger look like? It’s easy to picture signs of hunger, but in our community, the struggle is often hidden.
Did you know that nearly 25% of older adults in Marin struggle to make ends meet? That’s over 19,000 people who face difficult choices about paying for essentials like rent, medication, and food. Among them, approximately 14,000 people aged 60+ are food insecure—a number that has nearly doubled in recent years.
Hunger can be hard to see. For many of our neighbors, it’s a silent and invisible struggle.
Meet Clara
Clara has been a Marin resident for over 40 years, navigating the challenges of aging on her own. She stays active by participating in Vivalon’s technology classes and ukulele lessons and enjoys healthy meals at our Vivalon Café. However, when the pandemic struck, her situation changed. The food bank where she volunteered closed, and she found herself in need of assistance. That’s when Clara turned to Vivalon’s Brown Bag Pantry, where she not only found nutritious groceries but also a sense of community. “Food is so high these days, and they have healthy food.” Clara shared. “I like to see the people. There’s lots of us that need this help. Lots of people come before the opening. I come pretty late, and I just get what I need, and I’m grateful for it—whatever it is.”
How do we help our neighbors like Clara?
At Vivalon, we’re committed to supporting older adults in our community through various nutrition programs.
- Meals on Wheels and Vivalon Nourish: Volunteers deliver meals to homebound older adults.
- Brown Bag Pantry: Fresh groceries are available for individuals to pick up, providing immediate relief for those struggling to make ends meet.
- Vivalon Café: Affordable, chef-prepared lunches bring older adults together for nutritious meals and social connection.
- Pet Food Deliveries: Homebound clients also receive pet food to ensure their beloved companions are cared for.
Sharing Gratitude
Through our comprehensive nutrition programs, Vivalon provides more than just food. We offer hope, companionship, and a vital lifeline for those who need it most.
One meal recipient shared, “You’ve done so much for me. I wouldn’t have any food or anyone to talk to if it weren’t for you. I will never forget this.” Another client told us, “The only people in the world who care about me are at Vivalon.”
What can I do to help?
As a nonprofit organization, Vivalon relies on donations to ensure that older adults like Clara don’t have to choose between food and other essentials. Please consider making a donation today. A gift of any size can transform isolation into connection, and hunger into nourishment.
How to Donate
- Donate online here.
- Mail a check to Vivalon: 930 Tamalpais Avenue, San Rafael, CA 94901
- Call 415-456-9062 x4800
- Qualified Charitable Distribution from your IRA
- Stock
- Monthly donations
- Legacy gift in your estate plans
- Donor-Advised Fund
Volunteer
We’re always seeking compassionate volunteers to help deliver nutritious meals and offer companionship to our neighbors in need. By volunteering with Vivalon, you’ll join a community dedicated to reducing hunger in our community. It’s a meaningful opportunity to make a difference, build connections, and become part of the solution for a healthier, more connected Marin. Learn more and sign up here.
Together, we can ensure that no older adult in our community is left hungry or alone.
