As COVID relief benefits come to an end and the cost of living continues to rise many seniors are facing economic struggles.

The Golden Groceries food pantry is located in the Tom Sawyer Village which is one of Reno Housing Authority’s housing sites where all of the units are dedicated to seniors and those with disabilities. Several other senior households are located within a one-mile radius, making the pantry more accessible for seniors who don’t have the means to walk or drive to another grocery store that is farther away. seniors get the chance to shop with staff members and check off their list one item at a time.

“Having an on-site food pantry will provide our residents easily accessible, healthy food at low or no costs,” says RHA Executive Director Dr. Hilary Lopez. “We’re proud to be one more agency fighting hunger in our community.”

The Food Bank of Northern Nevada provided equipment for the pantry and operational training for RHA staff. Greater Nevada Credit Union donated $1,500 to purchase food and resupply the pantry as needed. The pantry is stocked with canned, frozen, and fresh foods.“ We are excited to see another Golden Grocery pantry in the community,” said Jocelyn Lantrip, director of marketing for the Food Bank of Northern Nevada. “We appreciate our partnership with RHA, and all of the ways that we can provide nutritious food to seniors at convenient locations.”

The pantry is open to all Reno Housing Authority residents and community members 55 years or older.