Martina is our newest sponsored elder.  She is 74 years old.  She and her 70-year-old husband live with their daughter and three grandchildren.  Don Santiago works as a day labourer, earning $9 per day, when he is able.  Their daughter is generally the main provider for the home, working as a cleaner in a private home, earning $6.30 per day.

 

This family really struggles for all the basic necessities, especially food.  Martina’s sponsorship ensures Martina can attend the Elder Lunch Program and receive a hot meal 5 days a week.  There they receive a thick pureed soup with a piece of meat, a tamale, and a piece of fruit and a nutritious drink.  Usually something from this meal goes home to help with the evening meal.  Having access to this program allows some relief for the grandparents from making the difficult decision to go without or have less so that the children will have food. 

Sponsoring an elder is $71 per month and can ensure they not only receive those hot, nutritious meals but they also have access to meaningful social interactions with their peers while attending the lunch program.  

Donations of $25 per month or more OR a one-time donation towards the Elder Lunch Program are gratefully accepted if sponsoring an elder is not a option.

Please contact Lois at lois@fundamayacanada.ca