Congressman Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) Addresses Food Security Crisis for Seniors Amid Federal Cuts
In a time of unprecedented challenges, St. Vincent Meals on Wheels has partnered with U.S. Rep. Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) to raise awareness, advocate for essential services, and develop solutions to support our vulnerable senior clients in Los Angeles County. The visit from the Congressman, a longtime friend and supporter of our mission to deliver food and love to homebound seniors throughout LA County, highlighted the significant impact of recent federal cuts to food programs, which have threatened the well-being of seniors in the community.
Congressman Gomez visited the SVMOW kitchen, where he helped prepare hot meals for delivery to homebound and hungry seniors. He also spoke about the alarming impact of nearly $200 billion in cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and local food banks. As these cuts take hold, the need among vulnerable seniors will continue to grow, and St. Vincent Meals on Wheels will have to absorb and serve many who have no alternatives. This crisis has hit seniors hardest, as they are the fastest-growing group facing food and housing insecurity in the area.
Together with donors like you and friends like Congressman Gomez, SVMOW plays a vital role in the community by preparing and delivering thousands of hot meals daily to homebound seniors, many of whom live at or below the poverty line. The recent federal budget cuts pose a serious threat to the continuation of essential services for seniors and other vulnerable individuals in LA County. With the potential for increased demand, SVMOW faces an urgent crisis as many seniors outside of our program will lose assistance and experience greater hardship. We may need our donors to step up and help us as the need to cover shortfalls in the system increases.
During his visit, Congressman Gomez highlighted the seriousness of the situation. He worked alongside Veronica Dover, CEO of St. Vincent Meals on Wheels, and Sister Jessica Ramirez to explore potential solutions. They were joined by the dedicated SVMOW kitchen staff and senior meal recipients, who shared their experiences and emphasized the critical importance of the services provided by SVMOW.
The partnership between St. Vincent Meals on Wheels and elected officials, like Congressman Gomez, showcased how impactful St. Vincent Meals on Wheels is in demonstrating community teamwork to address food insecurity and support those in need. Together, they emphasized the urgency of taking action to ensure seniors get the help they need to thrive during these difficult times.
