FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ALTSD Contact
Joey Long, PhD
Public Information Officer
Joey.long@altsd.nm.gov
March 13, 2025
State celebrates 53rd anniversary of Senior Nutrition Program
Senior nutrition programs provide everyone ‘a place at the table’
SANTA FE – This March, New Mexico joins the Administration for Community Living (ACL) and senior service providers nationwide in celebrating 53 years of the Senior Nutrition Program.
Since 1972, the Senior Nutrition Program has supported nutrition services for older adults. Funded by the Older Americans Act, these local senior nutrition programs serve as community hubs for adults 60 and older, offering meals, social connection and critical resources.
This year’s theme, “A Place at the Table,” underscores the importance of those local nutrition programs in ensuring older adults have access to healthy, nourishing meals. In New Mexico, the Aging and Long-Term Services Department (ALTSD) and the New Mexico Grown program play a key role in reducing food insecurity and improving access to fresh, quality, locally sourced food.
“Every March we celebrate the important work that our providers are doing to prepare healthy meals for our older adults,” said Denise King, ALTSD Aging Network Operations Director. “For many seniors, barriers like cost, transportation and limited mobility can make it difficult to access healthy food; that’s why these services are so vital for so many.”
For over five decades, senior nutrition services have strengthened communities throughout the county and in New Mexico. New Mexicans can join in the celebration of Nutrition Month by participating in themed events over the month of March, such as cooking demonstrations, educational workshops, and resources to empower seniors to make healthier food choices.
“Proper nutrition is a cornerstone of healthy aging,” said Ophelia Steppe, ALTSD State Nutritionist. “Eating well can help manage chronic conditions, increase energy, and help older adults stay active, independent and engaged.”
To learn more about the programs and services offered by ALTSD and the aging network, visit aging.nm.gov. For more information about the Senior Nutrition Program’s anniversary, visit acl.gov/snp/celebrate.
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The New Mexico Aging & Long-Term Services Department (ALTSD) was established in 2004 to provide resources, connection and advocacy for seniors and adults with disabilities. The department oversees the state’s Area Agencies on Aging to elevate the quality of care at senior centers, offers advocacy through the Long-Term Care Ombudsman volunteer program, and provides intervention through the agency’s national award-winning Adult Protective Services. Additionally, ALTSD houses the state’s Aging and Disability Resource Center, which offers options counseling, education, and connection to resources. For more information about ALTSD, visit aging.nm.gov or follow us on Facebook, X (Twitter), and Instagram @NewMexicoAging.