More seniors are coming to Little Flower Assistance Center than ever before. Rising costs have stretched fixed incomes thin, and many older adults across the Front Range are struggling to keep food on the table. For many on the east side of the metro area, Little Flower, a powerhouse ministry of Catholic Charities, has become the place they rely on when every dollar counts.
On the second Monday of each month, Little Flower opens its doors for “Senior Monday,” a day dedicated to helping older adults replenish what they need. Seniors arrive by bus, car or whatever transportation they can find. Some walk in with carts or tote bags, grateful to have a dependable place to turn.
In November, the need was unmistakable. By 9:30 a.m., a line of seniors wrapped around the block, waiting patiently for the doors to open. The cold morning did not stop them. They knew Little Flower would help them get through another month.
A recent Senior Monday offered a little extra comfort. Along with fresh produce and pantry staples, seniors received care packages filled with goodies they often go without including hats, soap, candy and other hygiene items. The gratitude was immediate, and so were the stories of how difficult the past few months have been.
When SNAP benefits were in flux because of the government shutdown, seniors felt the strain first. Many told staff they would have had to borrow money from family or go hungry if Little Flower had not been there. The uncertainty pushed them to seek help before things became worse.
Sara Moore, a dedicated Little Flower volunteer, handles intakes on Senior Monday. She listens to each story as seniors share how they have stretched meals, skipped groceries and leaned on Little Flower to get by. She sees the mix of relief and exhaustion as they leave with the food they need and the dignity they deserve.
Little Flower continues to be a steady support for seniors across Aurora and east Denver, offering more than food. It offers reassurance that they are not facing these challenges alone.
This Catholic Charities powerhouse is a food pantry, clothing closet and resource center that offers tremendous support for the community. Little Flower partners with a host of amazing parishes, businesses, agencies, organizations and volunteers to receive and distribute food and critical supplies to neighbors in Aurora and beyond.