The Senior Advocate Action Group (SAAG) celebrated the opening of its 11th community mini pantry on March 19, 2026, continuing its mission to combat senior food insecurity and provide essential resources to vulnerable populations across Greater Cincinnati.
Located on the campus of Little Brothers, at 5530 Colerain Avenue, Friends of the Elderly offers 24/7 access to nonperishable food items and hygiene supplies, ensuring that seniors and anyone in need are able to receive support with dignity and without barriers.
Elderly food insecurity remains a growing concern. According to Feeding America, 1 in 14 seniors nationwide face food insecurity, with many more living on the edge due to rising costs of housing, healthcare and daily living. Locally, thousands of older adults in the Cincinnati region are forced to make difficult choices between food, medication and utilities.
“This is about neighbors helping neighbors,” said Elizabeth Bangel-Stehlin, SAAG board president and co-founder, as she addressed volunteers and community partners prior to the ribbon cutting. “Cincinnati has always shown up for one another. These pantries are a direct reflection of what happens when a community chooses compassion, action and connection.”
The partnership with Little Brothers Friends of the Elderly highlights a powerful alignment of missions. Ja’Lah Willingham, executive director of the organization, emphasized the importance of addressing both food insecurity and social isolation, two challenges that often intersect for older adults.
“Access to food is critical, but so is the feeling of being seen, supported and valued. This partnership allows us to address both in a meaningful way,” she shared.
A unique aspect of SAAG’s mini pantry initiative is the hands-on involvement of community members. This particular pantry was built by Jordan Kiphart, owner of Silver Compass, alongside his wife Robin and their three children. The family-centered effort underscores SAAG’s broader goal of instilling a culture of giving across generations.
“It was important for us to involve our children in this project,” said Kiphart. “We want them to understand not only the needs in our community, but also the joy and responsibility of giving back.” The Kiphart family is also preparing to welcome their fourth child this May, making this contribution even more meaningful.
Since launching its first pantry, SAAG has rapidly expanded its footprint, with 11 boxes now strategically placed throughout Greater Cincinnati. These pantries collectively serve hundreds of individuals each month and are sustained entirely through community donations and volunteer support.
As SAAG continues to grow, so does its vision: ensuring that no senior in Cincinnati goes hungry or feels forgotten. Community members are encouraged to support the initiative by:
- Donating nonperishable food and hygiene items at any SAAG pantry location
- Visiting www.cincysaag.org for pantry locations and needs lists
- Dropping off donations at Seasons Retirement Community in Kenwood (7300 Dearwester Drive, Cincinnati 45236).