ALLIANCE FOR RETIRED AMERICANS
8815 16th Street, NW, 4th Floor ¨ Washington, D.C. 20006 ¨ (202) 637-5399 ¨ www.retiredamericans.org
For Immediate Release
March 5, 2010
Would Have Helped Many Struggling in Recession with Life-saving Medications
The following statement was issued today by Edward F. Coyle, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans, in reaction to the Senate’s failure to pass a $250 Economic Recovery payment for seniors, veterans, and persons with disabilities.
“Retirees are frustrated and despondent after both President Obama’s and Sen. Bernie Sanders’ calls for a $250 payment to help those struggling in this recession have so far fallen on deaf ears. This proposed act of compassion, had it passed, would have helped 49 million Social Security recipients, many of whom have seen their retirement savings and home values badly shaken by this economic crisis. This helping hand would have made a real difference in seniors’ lives.
“It was bad enough when retirees were told they would not be receiving a Social Security Cost-of-Living-Adjustment in 2010. In the worst economy since the Great Depression, it is unbelievable that Congress has shoveled hundreds of billions of dollars to Wall Street Robber Barons, yet the Senate has denied seniors a $250 check. That amount would not even cover dinner for one of Wall Street’s fat cats!
“The purchasing needs of seniors are unique, and often include medications needed to stay alive. We insist that the Senate realize the importance of this $250 payment to struggling retirees.”
“Alliance members demand that seniors not be ignored, and will continue their grassroots lobbying in support of this payment.”
The Alliance for Retired Americans is a national organization that advocates for the rights and well being of over 4 million retirees and their families.
