News Release: November 5, 2025

Media Contact:

Charmaine Nelson (626) 344-4325

 

THANKSGIVING NEARS, SNAP SUSPENDED: PASADENA SENIORS FACE HUNGER

 

With CalFresh (California’s SNAP) benefits suspended due to the federal shutdown, the Pasadena Senior Center is preparing for its largest food distribution yet on Friday, November 7, just ahead of Thanksgiving.

 

“CalFresh was the difference between a stocked fridge and an empty one,” said Akila Gibbs, Executive Director. “Now, many older adults are facing hunger for the holidays.”

 

The Center serves 500 seniors monthly through its food program with the LA Regional Food Bank, offering shelf-stable items, fresh produce, and holiday grocery gift cards. It also raises funds year-round to provide fresh meat and vegetables, ensuring older adults receive balanced, nutritious meals.

 

With 14% of Pasadena seniors living in poverty, demand is expected to surge.

 

Event Details

For 65 years, Pasadena Senior Center’s mission has been to improve the lives of older adults through caring service with opportunities for social interaction, fitness programs, basic support and needs services, education, volunteerism and community activism. With 10,000 Americans per day becoming older adults, the center is a leader in addressing issues of aging and provides innovative, cutting-edge, nationally recognized programs for this population group.

 

As a donor-supported nonprofit, the center operates without any local, state or federal funding and provides more services to older adults than any other organization in the San Gabriel Valley. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon. To learn more visit www.pasadenaseniorcenter.org or call 626-795-4331.