“We are definitely seeing more seniors in need every day, due to the current economic conditions,
government cutbacks, the rising senior population, and increasing food costs,” said Bill Blodgett,
President of the Board of Directors of La Comida. “We need $260,000 to close the gap for
this year.”
“La Comida is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1972 by the Rotary Club of Palo Alto.
We were the first congregate senior nutrition program in Santa Clara County, launched under the
Council on Aging. And today, La Comida serves more than 75,000 nutritious lunches every year to
seniors in Palo Alto,” said Deborah Grant, Executive Director of La Comida.
Food insecurity rates are rising, with seniors facing malnutrition, depression, and increased
physical and cognitive decline due to inadequate nutrition. Many seniors live on fixed incomes,
making it difficult to afford necessities like food, forcing them to skip meals or cut back on other
essentials. Communal dining has been proven to reduce the health and emotional risks associated
with social isolation among seniors, a vulnerable segment of the population.
“Today we saw one of our largest crowds ever — it was our Holiday Celebration, and in addition to
taking reservations at both service sites, we are expecting many ‘walk-ins’, probably over 200
people at each site. And our policy is never to turn anyone away,” said Board member
Nancy Coupal.
La Comida is going through its most crucial time to raise awareness and funds for this critical
work. We have never had to go to the public for support; in 53 years, we have managed with
government (County and City) funds. That has all changed: government funds are diminishing,
food costs have increased, while the number of seniors needing nourishing, healthy meals in a
socially friendly environment for their mental well-being is increasing daily.
“This week, I visited many businesses, small and large, in downtown Palo Alto, and not one had
heard of La Comida. And we have been providing meals for seniors for 53 years! No one was aware
of the need for a Senior Nutrition Program. There is clearly a divide here in Silicon Valley, and we
desperately need to make everyone aware of the vast population of seniors in need,” said Grant.
“La Comida carries out life-changing work for food-insecure seniors. Last year, we provided
meals to vulnerable seniors, many of whom are living in desperate conditions. And through our
healthy lunch service and activities, seniors connected, were nourished, and found community. We
do this with a staff of seven and over 60 volunteers,” said Blodgett.
“We need the community to help now, more than ever, so that we can continue to provide fresh,
healthy meals in a warm, inviting environment to food-insecure seniors. We need your support as
we all navigate these challenging times together,” said Grant.
Last modified: December 19, 2025
