Rising prices put seniors in a pinch

by Ed Ernstes (ernstes@wsbt.com)

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The Harvest Basket Food Program in Elkhart, run by the United Labor Agency, provides food for people on fixed incomes and those with disabilities

The Harvest Basket Food Program in Elkhart, run by the United Labor Agency, provides food for people on fixed incomes and those with disabilities. (WSBT photo)

By Tiffany Griffin

Story Created: May 13, 2008 at 10:29 AM EST

Story Updated: May 15, 2008 at 1:58 PM EST

ELKHART — Rising gas and food prices often force people on fixed incomes, like the elderly, to make the difficult choice of buying a gallon of gas, a gallon of milk or their medicine. One local group is trying to make those choices easier.

"I've been a director here for 12 years, and this is the busiest I have seen it in that amount of time,” said Linda Rothrock.

Rothrock works for Harvest Basket — a non-profit agency run by the United Labor Agency.

They provide food for people on fixed incomes and those with disabilities.

"There has been an increase in membership and I attribute that probably to the higher gasoline prices,” said Agency Coordinator Nila Kenney. “These people are on fixed incomes, so it’s harder for them to make ends meet."

"People making a decision whether they're going to buy a gallon of milk or a gallon of gas I think sends home a real serious message,” said Rothrock.

For many retirees and those living on a fixed income, the Harvest Basket program has made a real difference for them during tough economic times.

"It really helps out a lot because then what you get from here, you can save a little bit to spend on gas,” said Betty Davis of Goshen.

"I make it if I have to but I just have to be careful,” explained Helen Routson of Elkhart. “You really have to stretch and watch what you are doing."

“I don't get very much Social Security, so it’s kind of tough,” said Juanita Snyder of Elkhart. “Sometimes I just do without."

“I'm on a budget and I'm kind of from the old school, I kind of know how you have to budget,” said Elma Sommers.

If you'd like to volunteer with Harvest Basket or if you want more information on the program, click on the link in the Related Content box.

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