Bringing Hope and Nourishment to Marin’s Older Adults
As we gear up for another joyful Thanksgiving celebration with our loved ones, it’s crucial to remember those in our community who might not be guaranteed the same blessings we often take for granted. Marin County’s older adults, in particular, face a harsh reality, with 1 in 3 seniors grappling with food insecurity.
Vivalon’s nutrition programs are critical lifelines for hundreds of seniors in our community. From meals delivered right to the doorsteps of our homebound neighbors to affordable homestyle lunches in our café and a weekly food pantry—these programs extend far beyond just providing food. They offer compassion and connection, providing not just sustenance but also warmth, smiles, and meaningful conversation for those in need.
Why It Matters
It’s not just empty stomachs that plague our seniors; it’s the loneliness that often accompanies aging. Loneliness isn’t merely an emotion; it’s a formidable foe that can lead to declining physical health, depression, and impaired cognitive skills. The National Institute on Aging equates the health risks of prolonged isolation to smoking 15 cigarettes or consuming 6 alcoholic drinks daily. Social isolation and loneliness can steal away as much as 15 years from a person’s life.
Meet Patty and Barbara
Breaking up the loneliness in the day of a homebound elder is priceless – for clients and volunteers alike. Patty’s story highlights the profound impact these connections can have. Recently bereaved after the passing of her husband, Jim, Patty was comforted by the weekly Meals on Wheels delivery drivers. Because she lives alone, their visits have become a lifeline, helping to ease the deep sense of isolation she feels.
One particular beacon of light for Patty has been Barbara, one of her long-time volunteer drivers. Adorned in cheerful attire, Barbara goes the extra mile to uplift Patty’s spirits, often sharing fond memories of Jim, whom she also came to know over the years. These weekly encounters bring a smile to Patty’s face. A truly touching moment came when Barbara and our Meals on Wheels coordinator, Erika, attended Jim’s Celebration of Life service, showcasing the exceptional camaraderie and empathy that define the essence of Vivalon’s programs.
A Profound Impact
Last year, Vivalon delivered over 150,000 meals delivered to those in need – individuals who had just been discharged from the hospital to empty fridges, those facing debilitating health challenges with nowhere else to turn, and seniors who no longer have friends or family nearby to help put food on the table. As we get ready for the holiday season, our attention turns toward these neighbors. The holidays are often one of the most difficult times of the year for many seniors, and our mission is to bring comfort and joy to hundreds of older adults in our community.
Join Us in Making a Difference
Vivalon is hosting our annual Thanksgiving luncheon in the Jackson Café and delivering special holiday meals to our homebound neighbors. By donating today, you can spread joy and show these individuals that they are not alone during the holidays. Your support brings sustenance, companionship, and hope to those who need it most.
Donate here to make this holiday season brighter for our elderly neighbors.
Spend Thanksgiving at Vivalon
Enjoy a traditional turkey feast complete with all the trimmings. Don’t miss this opportunity to create beautiful memories this Thanksgiving.
November 23 | 11:30 am to 1:30 pm | $12 per person
Call 415-456-9062 to reserve your spot by November 17.
