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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Blanche Lincoln and Mark Pryor and U.S. Representatives Marion Berry, Vic Snyder, and Mike Ross today announced $967,000 for senior nutrition assistance programs throughout the state. This funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, will provide meals to seniors, restore nutrition services that have been cut and restore positions at organizations that may have been eliminated or reduced.
“Many Arkansas seniors rely on these initiatives to receive the proper nutrition that will sustain them and keep them healthy. Unfortunately, increases in food and fuel costs have caused many programs to reduce meal deliveries or close meal sites, threatening the well-being of these older Arkansans. Recovery dollars will enable programs to keep people on the job or put people back to work providing these much-needed services for our seniors. I am proud that this assistance is making its way to our state to strengthen our communities,” said Lincoln.
“It has become increasingly difficult for Arkansas seniors living on a fixed income to make ends meet,” said Pryor. “These economic recovery funds come just in time, ensuring seniors have access to meals while retaining much-needed jobs. “
"Eating right is a big part of staying healthy," said Berry. "This funding will help provide for seniors who are unable to get the food and services they need."
“Amidst the ever increasing costs of health care and prescription drugs, seniors have been particularly impacted during these difficult economic times,” said Ross. “No senior citizen in this country should be forced with the decision of choosing their medications over their next meal. These federal investments will go a long way towards helping ensure good nutritional opportunities for our state’s seniors.”
“The economic downturn impacts all of us, but it could be devastating for some older Americans,” said Snyder. “We cannot afford to forget about our seniors. Ensuring access to nutritious foods helps older Americans in need stay nourished.”
To help older Americans maintain their health and independence, the legislation includes funding for meals and nutrition services under the Older Americans Act (OAA). These nutrition services aim to reduce hunger and food insecurity and promote the health, well being and independence of older adults.
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