Bonamici Statement on Benefits to Seniors Demonstrated by GAO Report

In the early days of the pandemic, I heard from seniors who were isolated and worried about how they would get their next meal. I helped to lead Congress with quick action to fund Older Americans Act programs through the Families First Coronavirus Response Act and later through the CARES Act. Congress continued that support in the Spring of 2021 with the American Rescue Plan.

A new USGAO report released today confirms that this relief effort made a significant difference in the lives of seniors. In 2020, 24 million more meals were delivered to older Americans than in the year before.

Many more seniors became eligible for nutrition programs at this critical time, and service providers for seniors got the flexibility they needed to keep everyone safe.

I've long advocated for increased access to OAA nutrition programs, which vastly improve the quality of life for seniors. We've seen the power of these programs before, and the importance of them has been highlighted during the pandemic. I will continue advocating for robust funding into the future so seniors have the support they need to live with dignity.