MMM Foundation expands food program for older adults
The nonprofit calls for sponsors to support vulnerable seniors in Puerto Rico.
The MMM Foundation has renewed its call for public and private sector support for its “Adopta a un Viejo” (“Adopt an Older Adult”) initiative, a campaign aimed at alleviating food insecurity among vulnerable older people in Puerto Rico.
The program focuses on individuals aged 62 and older living in precarious conditions, providing monthly home deliveries of high-nutritional-value food designed by nutritionists. These packages take into account medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and kidney disease.
The annual sponsorship per participant is $1,800, which is tax-deductible and renewable each year.
“This effort responds to a basic need such as healthy eating and also represents an act of respect and solidarity toward our seniors who lack the means to cover their food expenses,” said Carla Haeussler-Badillo, executive director of the MMM Foundation.
Puerto Rico has one of the highest food insecurity rates in the region, affecting 30% of the population — more than double the U.S. average. Among residents aged 60 and older, 39% live below the federal poverty line. Older adults account for 31% of the island’s population, underscoring the urgent need for assistance.
Since launching the program in 2022, the foundation has helped more than 200 older adults across Puerto Rico.
“However, the need is pressing, and we have a long waiting list of seniors who need this assistance,” Haeussler-Badillo said.
The organization works with community leaders and local groups to identify eligible participants and will use a monitoring system to evaluate the program’s impact through satisfaction surveys and annual reports.
To sponsor a senior, individuals or businesses may send an email or call the Foundation at 939-303-2167.
