Sep. 12, 2024

The number of South Carolinians over the age of 65 is growing. This change in our state population brings challenges. But Senior Resources* in Richland County has been serving citizens in need for decades. 

In the last fiscal year, the organization provided 200,990 meals to 1,164 clients through its Meals on Wheels program. It continues to grow programs that serve residents in need in the area. 

Becky Morrison, director of development with the organization, shares more about its important work and how others can get involved. 

“Each meal we serve represents one less senior facing hunger and isolation in Richland County. Our success isn't just in numbers — it's in the lives we touch and the sense of connection and nourishment we bring to those who need it most,” she says. 

Tell us about the services Senior Resources provides. 

Senior Resources serves Richland County residents over 55 to allow them to age in their homes. Our largest program is Meals on Wheels, serving more than 700 clients. These clients are homebound or disabled. 

Our Pet Pals program delivers pet food to our clients with furry companions once a month. And the Senior Care Pantry provides shelf-stable meals to those on the Meals on Wheels waiting list. 

We also have four wellness centers for seniors who are facing social isolation but are not homebound. Lunch is provided along with transportation for those in need. For seniors who are still able to drive but need a little social engagement, we have Lunch Bunch. They meet weekly at Lizard’s Thicket for a meal and fellowship. 

For seniors who would like to give back, we have Foster Grandparents and Senior Companions through AmeriCorps Seniors. Foster Grandparents volunteer at schools mentoring and tutoring students. Senior Companions go into the homes of homebound seniors to provide light housekeeping, respite care and socialization. 

Lastly, we have the Lourie Center. This is a membership-based center for active older adults over 50 to enjoy fitness, educational and art classes. The Lourie Center’s mission is to keep older adults healthy, active and engaged in their community.

What is something you wish more people knew about the work you do? 

Our programs are free or low-fee for those that qualify. We are here to help our senior neighbors in Richland County in any way we can. We do so much more outside of Meals on Wheels! From the Lourie Center, to wellness centers, to Pet Pals, there are so many ways for the community to get involved in our work.

What are the top issues facing seniors in South Carolina today? 

The top issues facing seniors in South Carolina today are multifaceted, deeply affecting their financial stability, health and social well-being. The recently released Elder Index highlights that Richland County seniors living at 200 percent of the poverty level with good health have less than $33 a month available for living expenses. As health deteriorates, these seniors face even more alarming financial challenges, with a minimum monthly deficit of $201, escalating further as health and independence decline.

Key issues include the following:

Financial Insecurity

Many seniors in South Carolina struggle with limited financial resources. Over a third live on Social Security alone, with some receiving as little as $710 per month. Additionally, 51 percent of people aged 55 and older have less than $50,000 saved for retirement, leaving them vulnerable to economic hardship.

Health Challenges 

As seniors age, health care costs rise, particularly for those whose health deteriorates. The financial strain from medical expenses often leads to a deficit in monthly budgets, exacerbating the risk of poverty and the need for more expensive in-home services or institutionalization.

Social Isolation

Older adults are more vulnerable to social isolation due to factors such as living alone, the loss of a significant other, depression, poor health, loss of independence and limited financial resources. 

Growing Demand for Services 

The population of seniors in Richland County is expected to more than double by 2040, putting increasing pressure on resources. The demand for services such as Meals on Wheels has grown significantly, with a 500 percent increase in the waiting list from previous years.

Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach that includes preventive health services, social support programs, and financial assistance to ensure seniors can live with dignity and maintain their independence.

How are you addressing these concerns? 

We address these concerns daily with our services. Our mission is to keep seniors in Richland County healthy and independent. For Meals on Wheels, we are constantly working to grow our funding sources and move seniors off the waitlist and onto service. 

We offer innovative programing, such as the Wellness Centers and Lunch Bunch, to keep seniors connected in the community so they aren’t at risk of social isolation. The Lourie Center has expanded our continuum of care for older adults.

How can others in the community get involved to help? Are there volunteer opportunities aside from giving? 

We are always looking for volunteers* to deliver with Meals on Wheels. We rely on around 250 volunteers a week. Without them, we would not be able to do what we do for the community. We encourage individuals and companies to volunteer as much as they can, whether that's once a month or a daily route. 

What is next for your organization? 

We hope to continue to grow our services and support more older adults throughout Richland County. Our next fundraiser, Biscuits and Bluegrass,* will be held Oct. 26. We’re thrilled to have BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina back as our presenting sponsor of the event. All proceeds from this family-friendly event will go back to our work to fight senior hunger and isolation. We invite everyone to come out and support us! 

How does BlueCross support your work? 

We are so thankful for BlueCross! BlueCross is a huge supporter of Senior Resources. They are our presenting sponsor year after year for our Biscuits and Bluegrass fundraiser. Outside of the tremendous financial support, BlueCross also participates in volunteer blitzes in our Meals on Wheels kitchen, bringing in volunteers to pack and deliver meals. We are thankful for BlueCross’ leadership throughout the community!

*These links lead to a third-party website. Senior Resources is solely responsible for the contents and privacy policy on its site.