Supporting Low-Income Seniors with Food Gift Cards

Many of our members are seniors: over 150 members are aged 60 and above, with many living on fixed or low incomes. These seniors are among the most vulnerable to rising living costs and need additional community support. These members are seniors living on fixed or low incomes, who face daily challenges meeting basic needs such as food and healthcare.

Community Need:

The rising cost of food and daily essentials has placed additional strain on low-income seniors in our community. Many are struggling with inflation while living on limited pensions or social support. This financial stress not only impacts their nutrition and health but also their ability to participate fully in community life.

Supporting these seniors with direct financial assistance for food will help ease this burden and improve their quality of life.

Project Description:

We propose to distribute 50 food gift cards valued at $50 each to 50 low-income seniors in our community. The gift cards will be redeemable at local grocery stores, allowing seniors the dignity and flexibility to purchase the food items they most need.

Gift cards will be distributed at our Centre Street location, where seniors already come for community programming and social support. Volunteers will help organize and oversee the distribution process.

Goals and Outcomes:

1. Immediate Relief: Provide direct financial assistance to 50 low-income seniors to help offset the cost of food.
2. Health and Nutrition: Enable seniors to maintain healthier diets despite inflation.
3. Community Connection: Demonstrate care and support from the broader community, reducing isolation and increasing seniors’ sense of belonging.

Budget:

• 50 gift cards × $50 each = $2,500
• Administrative/coordination costs = $0 (all work will be done by volunteers)

Total Funding Request: $2,500

Diversity and Inclusion:

The Chao Chow Community Benevolent Society serves a culturally diverse population, including Chinese seniors and other community members in Calgary’s Chinatown. Our programs are open to all, regardless of cultural or linguistic background, and we collaborate regularly with other cultural associations to create an inclusive environment.

Low income Seniors

The Chao Chow Community Benevolent Society serves a culturally diverse population, including Chinese seniors and other community members in Calgary’s Chinatown. Our programs are open to all, regardless of cultural or linguistic background, and we collaborate regularly with other cultural associations to create an inclusive environment.