Food & Nutrition

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Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm

(800) 994-9422

Do you have access to food?

Access to nutritious food is essential for maintaining health, independence, and quality of life. Unfortunately, food insecurity among seniors remains a serious issue—impacting over 5 million older adults nationwide.

At SWCAA (Southwestern Connecticut Agency on Aging), we help connect individuals aged 60 and over to reliable, affordable, and nutritious meal programs throughout Fairfield County and the surrounding region. These programs promote healthy aging, social engagement, and preventive health through balanced meals and nutrition education.

Explore the options below to find senior meal programs, food pantries, and home-delivered meals in Fairfield County.

Monthly Nutrition Blog

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Food Programs

Community Cafes

The SWCAA Congregate Meal Program provides adults aged 60 and older with the opportunity to enjoy a healthy, well-balanced lunch in a friendly, social setting. Meals are served Monday through Friday at noon, and reservations are required at least two days in advance.

Many congregate meal sites are located in senior centers and housing communities, where participants can take part in group activities, wellness programs, and community events. The program also offers group nutrition education and counseling, helping participants understand the importance of diet in healthy aging.

Meals are supported by federal and state funding, with a small suggested donation—no one is turned away for inability to contribute.

Quick Facts:

  • Open to adults aged 60+
  • Meals served Monday–Friday at noon
  • Registration and advance reservation required
  • Dining with others supports physical, mental, and social well-being

Contact Information:

  • CW Resources – Greater Bridgeport Area
  • 📞 203-332-3264 | 📍 215 Warren Street, Bridgeport
  • Catholic Charities of Fairfield County – Greater Norwalk/Stamford Area
  • 📞 203-324-6175 | 📍 30 Myano Lane, Stamford

To find a meal site near you, visit our Towns page and select your community.

Food Pantries & Food Banks

Food pantries and food banks in Fairfield County provide vital support for residents facing food insecurity. These programs rely on community donations and food drives to ensure access to emergency food assistance for seniors and families in need.

While SWCAA does not maintain a full directory, you can find up-to-date listings of local food pantries by visiting 211ct.org and searching for “food pantries” in your area.

If you’re able, please consider donating to a local food bank to help others in your community. Every contribution supports our shared goal of ending hunger in Southwestern Connecticut.

Home Delivered Meals

The Title III Home Delivered Meals Program—also known as Meals on Wheels for seniors—offers much more than a meal. This program provides nutritious, home-delivered meals to homebound older adults, along with daily wellness checks and friendly social contact.

Each meal meets strict nutrition standards and is prepared to ensure safety and proper temperature. Meals for those with dietary restrictions are available. For many participants, the delivery driver may be the only person they see each day, making this service vital for both nutrition and well-being.

The program also includes nutrition education and counseling to encourage preventive health and independence. Services are funded by state and federal programs, with voluntary, anonymous donations accepted but never required.

To Make a Referral:
Eligibility must be verified before starting services. Please contact your regional Elderly Nutrition Provider:

Elderly Nutrition Providers:

  • CW Resources – Greater Bridgeport Area
    📞 203-332-3264 | 📍 215 Warren Street, Bridgeport
  • Catholic Charities of Fairfield County – Greater Norwalk/Stamford Area
    📞 203-324-6175 | 📍 30 Myano Lane, Stamford

Private Home-Delivered Meal Programs:
Several private agencies also offer home-delivered meal services for older adults with different eligibility requirements from the Title III program.

SNAP

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps older adults afford healthy food. Benefits are provided monthly on an EBT card that works like a debit card at grocery stores and farmers markets. SNAP can help stretch your food budget and support healthy, independent living.

Help Applying for SNAP

If you would like assistance applying, these organizations can help at no cost:

SWCAA – CHOICES
Serving all Fairfield County
📞 (800) 994-9422
🕘 Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM
🌐 Aging Answers – SWCAA Gutenberg

Catholic Charities – SNAP Outreach
Serving all Fairfield County
📞 (203) 750-9711 ext. 30
🕘 Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–4:30 PM
🌐 SNAP Outreach & Engagement | Catholic Charities

Connecticut Foodshare
📞 860-856-HELP (4357) | ¡Hablamos Español!
🕘 Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM
🌐 https://www.ctfoodshare.org/snap
📝 Online form: SNAP Form

Alliance for Community Empowerment
📞 (203) 366-8241
🌐 Supportive Services – Alliance for Community Empowerment

Need Help Navigating Nutrition Options?

If you or someone you care for needs assistance finding senior meal programs, home-delivered meals, or food resources in Southwestern Connecticut, call Denise Andreas at 203-814-3649. Our team is here to help you access the support you need to stay healthy, independent, and well-nourished.

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