HAPPY MEAL FOR HAPPY GRANNY years 3

The Aging Society is an inevitable global trend. Data from Thailand’s Ministry of Social Development and Human Security in 2023 shows that the country has 13 million elderly citizens, accounting for 20% of the total population. Of this group, 10.32% live alone.

Although the government attempts to address the elderly's cost of living by providing a monthly allowance to those aged 60 and over, the amount received is often insufficient for basic survival. This is particularly true for impoverished elderly individuals in "hollow-out" family structures, where households consist of two generations: grandparents and grandchildren, with the parents absent due to migrating for work. These elderly not only have their own expenses but also bear the financial burden of caring for their grandchildren.

The COERR Foundation's food assistance program is an ongoing initiative that began in 1986. COERR staff and volunteers systematically collect data on vulnerable elderly individuals who live in difficult circumstances, live alone without support from children, reside in dilapidated housing, and suffer from poor nutrition. Their information is recorded, and they receive assistance sequentially as other beneficiaries in the program pass away, maintaining the number at 110 individuals whom the staff can comprehensively care for.

For the elderly who are impoverished, frail, and afflicted by multiple diseases, receiving regular visits and assistance is invaluable. Having someone visit to listen to their hardships or even their joys helps to alleviate loneliness. This also positively impacts their mental well-being, making them realize that they are still valued and not a burden. Even though many beneficiaries the foundation has continuously supported have passed away, the working team vividly remembers their smiles and blessings, which serves as the inspiration to continue delivering meal kits to fill their stomachs and bring them joy.