ROANOKE, Va. — The Local Office on Aging’s Emergency Food Pantry has received a 2026 Aging Achievement Award from USAging, recognizing the program’s efforts to address food insecurity among older adults.
The Emergency Food Pantry was one of 33 local aging programs nationwide to receive an Aging Achievement Award during USAging’s 51st Annual Conference and Tradeshow, held July 18-21 in San Diego. An additional 16 agencies received Aging Innovations Awards.
The USAging Aging Innovations & Achievement Awards recognize Area Agencies on Aging and Title VI Native American Aging Program members that develop innovative programs to help older adults, people with disabilities and caregivers remain in their homes and communities.
“The award-winning programs reflect the ingenuity, dedication and local leadership of Area Agencies on Aging across the country,” USAging CEO Sandy Markwood said in a statement. “They show what is possible when communities invest in the innovative approaches that Area Agencies on Aging develop to respond to the real needs of older adults and caregivers, and we are proud to celebrate the organizations leading this important work.”
The Local Office on Aging’s Emergency Food Pantry provides supplemental nonperishable groceries to agency clients who face food shortages because of limited incomes, unexpected expenses or rising food costs. Eligible clients may receive a food bag once each month to help bridge the gap until their next Social Security or retirement check.
Food bags include canned vegetables and fruits, protein items, pasta, rice, cereal, peanut butter, soups and other pantry staples.
Ron Boyd, president and CEO of the Local Office on Aging, accepted the award on behalf of the organization.
“By providing emergency access to nutritious food, the Emergency Food Pantry Program helps reduce food insecurity, supports health and independence, and offers peace of mind to older adults facing financial hardship,” Boyd said. “No senior should have to go hungry simply because their grocery budget doesn’t last until the end of the month.”
The 2026 USAging Aging Innovations & Achievement Awards recognized programs in categories including caregiving, elder abuse prevention, healthy aging, nutrition, housing, transportation, technology and workforce development.
The Local Office on Aging is a nonprofit organization serving Alleghany, Botetourt, Craig and Roanoke counties, along with the cities of Covington, Roanoke and Salem. The organization provides 30 community-based services designed to help older adults remain independent in their homes and communities.
-The Salem Times-Register
