There are indications of unmet needs for the program's services, as well as signs that there may be new roles for the program in the future. The ENP provides an average of 1 million meals per day to older Americans. These meals are targeted toward highly vulnerable elderly populations, including the very old, people living alone, people below or near the poverty line, minority populations, and individuals with significant health conditions or physical or mental impairments. On average the meals provided easily meet the RDA requirements and significantly increase the dietary intakes of ENP participants. The ENP reduces the social isolation of older Americans in both the congregate and home-delivered programs and links participants with other needed services.
Federal dollars are highly leveraged.
Despite participant's low income levels, their contributions account for 20 percent of both congregate and home-delivered meals costs. Local donations and volunteer time, often from program participants, account for 14 percent of costs. The ENP is a highly successful program with many challenges on the horizon that will shape the future of the program. The changing demographics suggest different and increasing needs for program services, particularly in the area of home-delivered meals. The future needs for home-delivered meals will be driven in part by the increase in the number of those 85 and older who are expected to double by 2030 and who are most vulnerable to disabling conditions which hinder their ability to live independently.