Sequestration could affect federally funded programs, like Meals on Wheels program
-->By: Jennifer Lee
Updated: March 4, 2013
The so- called sequestration deadline has passed which means federally funded programs here at home are in jeopardy.
The spending cuts were implemented as a way to tackle the national debt and will soon affect defense and domestic spending programs, including the Meals on Wheels program.
Oneida County's Office for the Aging's Meals on Wheels program delivers hundreds of hot meals to senior citizens on a daily basis.
And with the growing enrollment in the program, officials say there may be a longer wait list to get in.
It's just another day at the parkway senior center for Flo Brindisi.
Like her and many other members, before their afternoon activities, like Wii Bowling, they each enjoy a hot meal.
"The lunches are nourishing, filling and reasonably priced," said Brindisi.
The Parkway Senior Center is one of 12 locations throughout Oneida County that takes part in the Meals on Wheels program.
But, a majority of seniors apart of the program have their meals delivered to them, a number that is growing.
"A lot of people that I do know are unable to cook, possibly they are on a walker or a cane and it is very hard for them to cook," said Brindisi.
As congress failed to act before the sequestration deadline, the Director of the Oneida County Office for the Aging and Continuing Care says the cuts will affect area senior citizens.
"What it translates into it is a longer wait list for services and programs for home delivered meals, caregiver respite and volunteer transportation," said Director, Michael Romano.
The organization already faces a lack of federal funding as the demand increases for their meals on wheels program.
So, the organization says it will be forced to look at other alternatives for families.
"The sequestration will have a negative affect about 8 to 10 percent of the federal funds that we receive," said Romano.
The program is expected to lose about $120,000 to $150,000 in funding. But, the director says the cuts will not affect the prices of the meals.
