For the elderly across New Mexico who still live independently at home, the current inflation is likely putting a real dent in the budget, particularly for groceries. Many seniors rely on their monthly Social Security to buy food and pay expenses, and the rising cost of food may really be affecting the type of groceries they can purchase. The average price of protein found in eggs, meat, poultry and fish has increased from 6% to 20% since 2020; many other staples have seen even higher price increases.
Good nutrition from healthy foods is important to seniors. If you or an elderly family member are struggling to purchase groceries needed for a healthy diet or if you need meals delivered to the home, we strongly encourage you to contact a resource to get help with food. FootPrints Home Care’s mission is to serve others in our communities across New Mexico.
Bernalillo County
The US Census estimates that in Albuquerque and Bernalillo County, 1 in 7 seniors lives below the poverty level. Silver Horizons is a non-profit that offers a free grocery program for seniors; a drive-up program or home delivery is available. To learn more, contact them at 505-884-3881 or learn more here.
Sandoval County
The Sandoval County Senior Program offers home-delivered meals as well as congregate meals in a number of senior centers (group meals are on hiatus during Covid). Program staff will ask the senior a few questions about finances and if they drive; the county does not charge for meal services but donations are appreciated. For more information, call 505-867-7535 or visit their website.
Santa Fe County
The Santa Fe County Senior Program offers home delivered meals to seniors living in the county. A suggested donation is $1.50. More information is available by calling 505-992-3069 or visit their website. The City of Santa Fe also provides home-delivered meals. Call 505-955-4721 for information. A number of non-profit food banks also provide groceries.
Across New Mexico
The Economic Council Helping Others, Inc. (ECHO) offers a Free Food for Seniors program through the commodity supplemental food program for income-qualified seniors in New Mexico who are age 60 or older. Call 505-326-3770 for distributions in Northwest New Mexico including Chama, Farmington, Dulce, Coyote, Gallup, Lake Valley, Cuba, Bloomfield, Blanco, Aztec, Shiprock, and Crownpoint. For distributions in Albuquerque, Belen, Bernalillo, Grants, Jemez, Espanola, Ranchitos, and Santa Fe, call 505-242-6777.
You may also want to check into SNAP benefits.
At FootPrints Home Care, our caregivers help seniors live in their homes as long as possible. From meal preparation to assistance with showering and housekeeping, we care deeply that elders can be safe and comfortable at home for as long as possible. If you or a senior family member need help with food or groceries during the inflation of 2021-2022, please contact one of the agencies above. A list of all food banks in New Mexico, offering help to all ages, is available here.
