At 82 years old, Linda* was working in a middle school cafeteria. She was tired, worried about her health, and dreamed of having more time to spend in her garden and with her great-grandchildren.

But despite careful budgeting, she couldn’t afford to retire—her income covered rent and basic expenses, but not food. The fear of going hungry was what kept her working.

That changed when she learned about EFN’s Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP), which provides monthly boxes of nutritious food to eligible seniors. When she found out she qualified, Linda was overcome with emotion. For the first time in years, she felt a sense of relief. EFN staff also helped connect Linda to a local food bank and the Pierce County Senior Farmers Market Voucher Program, ensuring she had even more support if needed.

Now, Linda is planning to tell her supervisor she won’t be returning next school year. She’s finally able to rest—and spend more time with the people she loves.

CSFP is a lifeline for seniors like Linda—but it’s currently at risk due to proposed federal budget cuts. Your voice and support are needed now more than ever to help protect this vital program and ensure neighbors don’t have to choose between food and other basic needs. Contact your representatives today and urge them to protect food assistance programs for those who need them most.

*Name and photo have been changed to protect the individual’s privacy.