LANSING, Mich. -- Organizations throughout the state are trying to ensure no senior goes without food as the world fights the COVID-19 pandemic.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer extended Michigan's stay-at-home order through May 15 - a move of special importance to older adults, who are at higher risk of complications should they contract the coronavirus.
Lisa Dedden Cooper, manager of advocacy at AARP Michigan, explained there's a one-stop phone number to call for seniors who might be struggling during this time. "Michigan's toll-free COVID-19 hotline is 888-535-6136," Cooper said. "And if you're age 60 or older, you can press '1' to be connected to a live Senior Specialist who will help connect you with the food and support you need." She said available services include home-delivered meals, emergency food boxes or a phone call from someone who can lend an ear. And other Michigan residents are encouraged to donate their time to help deliver meals, support an older adult or donate money that can be used to purchase a quarantine food box for seniors. More information is online at Michigan.gov/aasa.
AARP Michigan has been in contact with its members regularly during the crisis. And Cooper said they're hearing stories from around the state of folks who don't have enough food on hand. "Going to the grocery store poses risks, especially for older adults or people with underlying health issues," she said. "But depending on where you live, grocery delivery may or may not be an option. And not everyone can afford to stock up on a week or two of groceries."
She noted the federal CARES Act provided additional funding for meal programs. And AARP made a quarter-million-dollar contribution to Meals on Wheels to help during the pandemic. AARP Michigan also has a comprehensive coronavirus resource page at AARP.org/MI.
