Since 1976, Little Tokyo Nutrition Services has provided warm meals and vital services to vulnerable seniors in Little Tokyo and Boyle Heights.
Little Tokyo Senior Nutrition Services will celebrate 50 years of providing congregate and in-home meal delivery and other vital support services to vulnerable seniors in Little Tokyo and Boyle Heights on Saturday, Oct. 3, at Nishi Hongwanji social hall, 815 First St. in Little Tokyo.
The celebration will recognize community leaders Beverly Ito, president/CEO of Keiro Senior Health; Don Tahara, caterer/owner of Far Bar; and Setsuma Nakama, LTNS executive director.
“Our nutrition program combined with the social and support services has a made huge impact on improving the lives of the seniors we serve,” said Darlene Kuba, president of the LTNS board.
The anniversary couldn’t come at a more challenging time. LTNS is reaching out to the community for support for this important organization.
Also known as Koreisha Chushoku Kai, LTNS was founded on April 2, 1976 as a result of concern for the senior residents of Little Tokyo. Throughout the years, LTNS has helped participants keep in touch with one another and promote healthy living and a sense of community.
Until this past year, LTNS was primarily financed by federal funds that came through the Los Angeles City Department of Aging. Due to the recent actions by the current federal administration by the passing of the “Big Beautiful Bill,” funds for nutrition programs throughout the U.S. have been eliminated. LTNS has found a funding source only for the food/meals.
With the loss of federal funding, LTNS is now dependent on funds from community organizations, foundations, nonprofits and private donors. Funding is needed for operational costs, which include salaries for staff, supplies for the nutrition program, rent, insurance and transportation.
LTNS needs support to operate and serve its current number of seniors. The majority of participants are over 75. Like all seniors, they face isolation, lack of supportive services and food insecurity. Most are on fixed incomes that do not keep pace with inflation. LTNS provides a healthy meal that addresses food insecurity.
In addition, both the congregate and home delivery food programs directly impact the issue of isolation and wellness. The congregate program brings seniors together to enjoy a meal, the company of others and participation in craft and exercise classes.
The anniversary celebration will feature a special performance by Davis Gaines, who performed the title role in “Phantom of the Opera” in Los Angeles and on Broadway.
For tickets and more information, call (213) 680-9173 or email ltseniormeals@gmail.com.