The Tafel in Neustadt, Central Franconia would like to help pensioners in need with a senior bag. “The problem is: Many people don’t dare to come and stand in line because they are ashamed,” said chairman Thomas Nicol.
That’s why those affected can pick up pre-packed bags of food donations during office opening hours so that they don’t have to show up at the fixed drop-off times. “It’s discreet. They’re relatively anonymous,” says Nicol. If you are no longer so mobile, you can also have the senior bag delivered.
According to the federal association, the 975 food banks in Germany support 1.6 to two million people. About a quarter of them are senior citizens, a spokesman said. The trend is increasing. According to him, the food banks are also preparing for this: In addition to a delivery service for people with limited mobility, they also organize senior cafes, smartphone courses or game afternoons because older people also lack money for leisure activities.
Nicol also assumes there will be high demand in the Neustadt an der Aisch/Bad Windsheim district. There are no exact numbers, he says. But if you calculate the federal association’s quota down, it could theoretically be around 15,000 people. “We hope to use the senior bag to reach the people who really need it.” The content cannot offer full coverage. “But you should get through the week halfway,” he says.