Extreme weather presents many challenges for our older neighbors. But for New York City’s most vulnerable population – the homebound elderly – these conditions are especially dangerous. In winter, snow and ice can trap our recipients inside their homes, and summer heatwaves put them at risk for dangerous heat-related illness. For many, they spend much of each season behind closed doors, making them especially susceptible to hunger and isolation.
That’s why our warehouse buzzes with activity seasonally as staff assemble Emergency Food Packages (EFPs) for our meal recipients. Each EFP contains several ready-to-eat meals and additional items, including staples like tuna, organic brown rice, vegetables and applesauce – as well as special treats like hot chocolate and low-sugar cookies.
EFPs are a lifeline for our isolated older neighbors, ensuring their kitchen cabinets are well-stocked if our regular meal deliveries are delayed.
Last year, Citymeals provided over 160,000 packages to our meal recipients.
See our work in action in the video below:
At 85 years old, Frances has lived in Brooklyn her whole life. "I could never move from here," she reflects. Read more
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100% of your donation will be used for the preparation and delivery of meals, thanks to our partnership with the New York City Department for the Aging, along with gifts from our board of directors and others designated for administrative expenses.
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