Food insecurity rates have hit a 10-year high, and that means a growing number of neighbors are facing hunger. Recent cuts to Medicaid and reduced SNAP benefits have created another layer of hardship, putting an extra squeeze on many household budgets. This is especially true for older neighbors living on fixed incomes. Every day can…
For most of his life, Kent made Tacoma his home base. But when his great aunt became unwell, he decided to move to the Willamette Valley to care for her. Helping others — especially his family — is just second nature for Kent. “I wanted her to be able to stay in her home,” he…
Several residents at Holiday Hidden Lakes Senior Living aren’t slowing down in their retirement. Instead, they stay active and engaged by volunteering every week at Marion Polk Food Share’s warehouse, sorting and repacking food for our neighbors facing hunger. Maureen, also known as “Mo,” is a Holiday Hidden Lakes resident who has dedicated much of…
Sharon doesn’t give up on people. Once you’re in her orbit, you’ve got a loyal friend for life. A longtime Salem resident, Sharon started volunteering as a Meals on Wheels driver during the COVID-19 pandemic when the need for delivered meals was at an all-time high. “I’ve been delivering the same route [in Northeast Salem]…
