As you are aware, the increased cost of all products, services and handling have been extremely high this year. The demand for home delivered meals for our needy Seniors has grown to a projected 58,000 meals this year. Sierra Senior Providers (SSP) also will feed an additional 17,000 Seniors hot meals in our congregate dining room at the Senior Center and three other sites. This is an increase of 10% over last year, and we do not see any decrease in demand for the future.

Our delivered meals average cost is $8.00 per meal. After all contributions from the State, Federal, County and clients, our deficit is still $2.65 per meal. As you can see, based on 58,000 meals per year, we are always in a deficit position. In addition, serving over 22,000 meals per year in our congregate dining sites generates another $2.04 deficit for each meal.

The goal of SSP Meals on Wheels Program every year is to find community donors who will help us meet the shortfall created by lack of funding from the State, Federal, County and clients, whose contributions do not cover the full cost of food that is purchased, prepared, served and delivered.

Because of this demand, we are asking for your help by contributing to this program. Please consider this letter as a request for any contribution you can make. We hope you will include us as a worthy cause with your donations.

You have our sincere appreciation and thanks for considering the Meals on Wheels and Congregate Dining Programs for your donations. We are aware there are other programs that have needs, but we feel food for needy Seniors is at the top of the list. Our Seniors count on your contributions. Please remember us in your will, trust or estate. SSP is a tax-exempt organization under Section 501 c(3) of the IRS code - TAX ID #77-0432625

Sincerely,

Randy Hunsaker
President
Sierra Senior Providers