March 2023: March for Meals Month

WHEREAS, fifty-one years ago, on March 22, 1972, President Nixon signed into law a measure that amended the Older Americans Act of 1965 to include a national nutrition program for individuals 60 years and older; and,

WHEREAS, for five decades, this landmark law has helped to fund community-based organizations – like Older Americans Act Nutrition Programs – and it is still the only federal program designed specifically to meet the nutritional and social needs of older adults; and,

WHEREAS, this year, Older Americans Act Nutrition Programs from across the country are joining together for the March for Meals awareness campaign to celebrate 51 years of success and garner the support needed to ensure these critical programs can continue to address food insecurity and malnutrition, combat social isolation, enable independence, and improve health for years to come; and,

WHEREAS, Older Americans Act Nutrition Programs – both congregate and home-delivered, in the state of Michigan have served our communities admirably for over 50 years; and,

WHEREAS, volunteers for Older Americans Act Nutrition Programs in Michigan are the backbone of the program, not only delivering nutritious meals to seniors and individuals with disabilities who are at significant risk of hunger and isolation, but also caring concern and attention to their welfare; and,

WHEREAS, Older Americans Act Nutrition Programs in Michigan provide nutritious meals to seniors throughout the state that help them maintain their health and independence, thereby helping to prevent unnecessary falls, hospitalizations and/or premature institutionalization; and, 

WHEREAS, Older Americans Act Nutrition Programs in Michigan provide a powerful opportunity for social connection for millions of seniors to help combat the negative health effects and economic consequences of loneliness and isolation; and, 

WHEREAS, Older Americans Act Nutrition Programs in Michigan deserve recognition for the heroic contributions and essential services they have provided amid the COVID-19 pandemic and will continue to provide to local communities, our State and our Nation long after it is over; and,

WHEREAS, the older adult population is increasing substantially, and action is needed now to support Older Americans Act Nutrition Programs through federal, state and local funding; volunteering; donations; and raising awareness to ensure these vital services can continue to be delivered for another 50 years;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim March 2023 as March for Meals Month in Michigan.