TAMPA, Fla. — Senior citizens in jeopardy of losing food assistance as a result of the government shutdown have a place to turn for help if SNAP benefits are halted.

What You Need To Know

About 39,000 seniors in Pasco and Pinellas counties rely on SNAP

Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas partners with the Neighborly Senior Care Network and Pasco County Senior Services for food programs

Enrollment, assessment processed waived so seniors on SNAP have easy access to food

AAAPP Helpline: 1-800-963-5337 or 727-217-8111

The Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas is expanding access to its food programs. Those 60 and older on SNAP can get a free hot meal or non-perishable food items.

“We’re very concerned about seniors who are receiving SNAP benefits or food stamps, and the impact that that could have on them being able to access food,” said Christine Didion, program director with Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas.

The agency already provides a free meal every weekday, but starting Nov. 3, the enrollment and assessment process will be waived to ensure seniors on SNAP have access to food.

“We certainly don’t want a senior to be making hard decisions, like, ‘Do I pay for my groceries or do I pay for my medicine?’” said Didion. “So, we do want seniors to know that there are options out there and they don’t have to make those decisions. We can help them. And making those ends meet without those food stamps or without those food stamps being available.”

Joanna Deacon is one of those seniors relying on the assistance.

“It does mean a lot to me to get it,” Deacon said. “It may not be a lot of money to some, but to those of us who need it, it is a real blessing. I only get $23 a month, however that $23 is your bread, your eggs, your milk, your basic essentials. And for those of us who are seniors and a little older, those little basic essentials essential do add up.”

AAAPP is expecting an uptick at its dining locations across both counties and says it’s prepared to help as many seniors as possible.

“As long as we’re here, we’re going to make sure seniors are fed,” said Didion.

Volunteers like Deborah Hollis are ready lend a helping hand.

“I would be here helping, giving out, making sure everyone but the ones that can’t get out of their residency,” Hollis said. “Yeah, I’ll see if we can move forward in knocking on their doors and making sure they’re getting something to eat.”