The current state of the economy is affecting us all, both in this country and around the world. Many are having to really tighten their belts just to get by. But Ira Riklis knows that the problem is most acute for senior citizens. Most live on fixed incomes, mostly the meager amount they receive from Social Security. Some are frail and unable to leave their homes. Some are alone. Many have little to eat and try to survive on what amounts to a starvation diet of just one-third the daily nutritional recommendation for an older person.
Its to serve people like these that New York City’s Citymeals-on-Wheels program was founded almost 30 years ago. Over the years the program has grown in response to the growing needs. It now provides lifeline of food and companionship for 17,000 of the city’s homebound elderly. But as times get eve harder, even this well-established program has to struggle to keep up, even in light of the fact that they have a strong base of kind and generous supporters including Ira Riklis. It really takes all of us to pitch in to make a difference. Please consider making a donation ($39 delivers six weekend meals). The need is all around us, not just in New York, so look for similar programs near you that could use some help.