"Food really is the door opener -- that is the initial connection," says Central California Food Bank Co-CEO, Kym Dildine.
It can be hard for some people, especially for our older adults.
Whether it's because of rising costs or transportation, it can lead to stress and anxiety.
"The cost of staying in a household, buying food, groceries is becoming more and more difficult, and remains as important," says Dr. Amit Saini with Kaiser Permanente Fresno. "People's needs are increasing, and the means to fulfill those needs are lessened. Food is the top need."
State leaders say by 2030, one in four Californians will be over 60 years old.
WATCH: Mental State: The Loneliness Epidemic
According to the California Department of Aging, about 22% of older adults live alone.
A 2023 survey by the agency found 40% older adults reported that loneliness or isolation was a problem.
"It can affect a person's mind where they can lose their cognition, causing cognitive impairment, dementia," Dr. Saini said. "A person can lose emotionality."
Local community groups are taking action against food insecurity within the older population, as well as loneliness.
Kaiser Permanente awarded $450,000 in grant money to five California groups that will not only improve access to healthy food, but also combat social isolation.
Cultiva La Salud was one of the recipients and received $90,000.
Doctors say community involvement is just one step towards reducing loneliness.
The solution is investing time, having meaningful conversation, which means giving our ears to our seniors and listening to them," Dr. Saini said.
Meanwhile, the Central California Food Bank feeds over 320,000 people who are dealing with hunger. That includes 40,000 older Californians.
Dildine says they offer over 500 programs for neighbors, as well as partner with other community agencies.
By stepping up to the plate, not only are we reducing hunger with our aging population, but also creating connections.
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This story is part of the "Our America: Mental State - The Loneliness Epidemic" series. The collaboration between ABC News and the ABC Owned Television Stations aims to share reporting on how to build social connections, with focus on stories about kids, caregivers, the workplace, the election, the holidays, and anyone looking to learn how to take care of themselves and others.
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