As of November 1, 2025, millions of Americans—including many older adults—may not receive their monthly food benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. This disruption affects individuals living on fixed incomes, many of whom rely on SNAP to afford groceries and maintain their health.
On a Saturday morning at the Olympia Senior Center, Linda Terry, the founder of Sharing Teens and Elders Project (STEP) is welcoming long-time and new participants for the day’s events. Committed volunteers are putting out snacks and coffee, while sneaking in praises for Linda’s unwavering dedication to bridge generations and foster a bond between elders and a caring group of local teens.
When Woodinville resident, Cheryl Swartz first joined Full Life Care as a volunteer with ElderFriends, she and her son visited an older man who was estranged from family – the pair brought fresh baked cookies on their visits, made friendly calls, and stopped by just to chat. After that first visit Cheryl was inspired to do more to bring joy and companionship to isolated elders throughout Seattle and King County.
AARP members Judith and Lee Piper have a special place in their heart and home for older dogs who may be sick, struggling at a shelter, or without a place to stay because their human companions are having difficulty. After several years of welcoming older dogs to their 5-acre property in Arlington, they stumbled onto an idea. Let’s recruit loving families that are willing and able to care for elder canines over 8 years old AND we’ll start a non-profit, Old Dog Haven, to raise money to help pay for any medical costs that might be needed.