Financially and emotionally, this is a difficult time of year for senior homes in our community. Over 280 seniors (60+) in Appanoose struggle below the 100% poverty line [1]. Hundreds more seniors are under the 200% of the poverty level, qualify for Sieda’s LIHEAP and senior food bag program.

Thus, Sieda provides for seniors that enroll in Appanoose County Silver and Gold Program during the holiday season. Food items were given, such as ham or turkey, canned vegetables and fruit, broth, brownies, frosting, noodles, potatoes, stuffing, fixings for green bean casserole, and more. Sieda purchased food with our funds and donations thanks to John Deere and Southern Iowa Electric.  Likewise, thanks to Fareway handling our large food orders. With this program growing, any help we get is a blessing. Family Dollar donated some items for seniors and children. 

During the program, Lindsey and Regina had 175 food bags for senior homes in Appanoose County. Some homes have two seniors, meaning the program served 209 individuals. The number helped has grown for this program over the last several years. Between 2020 and 2021, 30 more homes applied. 

The seniors who can sign-up are automatic LIHEAP (Heating Assistance) senior households. Meaning they are 60-year-olds and up and living in a home with a fixed income from year to year (example: SSI, SSDI). Sieda helps yearly around 400 60-year-olds and older in Appanoose county [2]. We hope next year to continue to reach even more.

Appanoose County Operation Santa

In the same vein, the community blesses our Sieda clients by providing gifts to children through the Appanoose County Operation Santa. Sieda is glad to help give and collect applications. 25.3% or nearly 700 youth under 18-years-old in Appanoose County live below the 100% poverty line [1]. Qualified families with children 0 to 18 years old can apply to this program. Hundreds of children were adopted and provided gifts.

It is exciting to be a part of the Appanoose community.

[1] U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates; Age Groups Below Poverty Line, Appanoose County, Iowa; 2019

[2] Sieda Community Action 2020 Client Demographics, Appanoose County, 2020, Natalie Aeschliman