Seniors Should Not Need Nutrition Vouchers!
The South Carolina Department of Social Services is distributing $25 food vouchers to seniors in Greenwood County who qualify for the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program. Many consider this a win-win program, as it provides fresh fruit and vegetables to low-income seniors while also supporting the state’s small farmers. But, the truth of the matter is, most seniors would not need assistance if Social Security benefits were higher.
According to an article in the Index-Journal, the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program is open to seniors aged 60 and over with a yearly income of no more than $23,832 (or $32,232 per couple). That adds up to a lot of people when you consider that the average monthly Social Security benefit this year is $1,543 – that’s only $18,516 per year!
The Seniors Trust wants to ensure America’s retirees do not need to count on food subsidies to survive. We’re urging Congress to pass the Social Security Expansion Act. In addition to increasing monthly benefits by about $65 a month, this bill will establish a fair cost-of-living adjustment and ensure the long-term solvency of our country’s Social Security program.
