Food insecurity is influenced by multiple factors and impacts a person’s health, well- being, and quality of life. A 2016 report places Georgia ninth in the nation for the prevalence of food insecurity among people ages 60 and older. The number of older adults in Georgia who currently face the threat of hunger is more than 300,000. Georgia defines food insecurity as a person or household facing the threat of hunger, lacking safe and adequate food to sustain health and quality of life, and unsure of the accessibility of or the capability to obtain suitable foods in socially acceptable ways.
Changing the direction of food insecurity in Georgia requires the coordination, cooperation and communication of health care professionals, faith-based and civic groups, communities, government and other resources all working together for the common good of the state’s older adult population.
The Five areas of impact to address and remedy food insecurity issues in Georgia (as identified in the State Plan to Address Senior Hunger):
a) Today’s Seniors
b) Health Impact of Senior Hunger
c) Food Access
d) Food Waste and Reclamation and
e) Meeting the Community’s Needs
The Metro Atlanta Senior Hunger Coalition is comprised of nonprofit and governmental agencies. The Coalition aims to address food insecurity:
Awareness … ensuring that people are aware of the critical nature of food insecurity and senior hunger
Advocacy … ensuring our elected officials understand the message
Access … ensuring that older adults are aware of the many options that may be available to them to address their needs
Education … helping older adults understand how the food they eat impact their health
Coalition Members include:
ARC’s Strategic Partners are committed to fostering collaborative regional approaches that improve quality of life in metro Atlanta. Their support elevates ARC leadership programs, research and events throughout the year. Learn more.
