As Jamaica’s population ages, the importance of taking care of our seniors cannot be overstated. The National Council for Senior Citizens Meals on Wheels Programme plays a vital role in providing daily sustenance to approximately 100 food-poor, shut-in older people in the corporate area, and a monthly food package to 500 needy older people across the island.

The National Council for Senior Citizens (NCSC) this morning partnered with Food for the Poor to host a unique food sampling event, “Mission Manna Pack—Jamaican Style,” showcasing the creativity of Jamaican senior citizens who have been adding local herbs, vegetables, and spices to the Manna Pack rice meal, provided through the NCSC’s Meals on Wheels Programme.

“This event highlighted the critical need to support our senior citizens, who have contributed so much to our society,” said Minister Charles. “We are grateful for the partnership with Food for the Poor and FMSC, which enables us to provide essential support to our seniors.”

Minister Charles Jr further emphasized that the event also underscores the importance of food security and healthy ageing. “Our seniors deserve to live with dignity, and access to nutritious food is a fundamental aspect of that dignity.”

The Honourable Minister of Labour and Social Security attended the event, endorsing the long-standing partnership with Food for the Poor and its donors. The event took place on the NCSC grounds (11 West Kings House Road, Kingston 10) and brought together representatives from Feed My Starving Children (FMSC), Food For The Poor, and the NCSC to:

• Sample unique Jamaican-style versions of the Manna Pack meal prepared by senior
  citizens
• Launch a recipe book featuring these recipes, highlighting the creativity and
  the resourcefulness of Jamaican seniors
• Promote healthy eating among older people, even on a budget