November 2009 Senior Update from Congressman Joe Sestak
In this time of economic turmoil, it is paramount that we protect our nation's seniors, who are especially vulnerable to flucations in the economy because of their fixed incomes.  Click here to read more about the issues that Congressman Sestak has addressed on behalf of seniors in the 7th Congressional District.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is the new name for the Food Stamp program. SNAP benefits are used to buy food and help low-income households in Pennsylvania obtain more nutritious diets. Eligible participants can use the program to increase their food purchasing power at grocery stores and supermarkets. Other food resources that may interest you include: the National School Lunch Program, Local Food Pantry and Soup Kitchens, and the Women, Infants and Children Program (WIC). Click here for more information.

Since its inception during the Johnson Administration, Medicare has provided a stable health care plan for our nation's seniors. It has improved the quality and length of life for millions of Americans. By granting all seniors a health care plan, access to doctors and prescription drugs, Medicare ensures that we don't turn our back on our nation's most vulnerable citizens. For more information about Medicare and Medicaid and for help troubleshooting Medicare and Medicaid issues, click here.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a Federal income supplement program funded by general tax revenues (not Social Security taxes). It is designed to help aged, blind, and disabled people, who have little or no income; and it provides cash to meet basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter. For more information about social security and trouble shooting issues with the Social Security Administration, click here.

To assist the tenants of the 7^th congressional district of Pennsylvania, I have assembled a list of resources offering information on affordable housing and rent subsidies as well as information on landlord tenant law. In the event that you require assistance paying the rent or information on the laws applicable to landlords and tenants, please do not hesitate to contact these helpful resources. For more information, click here.

Identity Theft is a serious problem that requires immediate attention. If you believe that you have been the victim of Identity Theft or would like additional information about Identity Theft Prevention, click here.

I understand the frustration and aggravation that arises from dissatisfaction with products and services. To assist the constituents of the 7^th District, I have put together the following resources to assist you in your efforts to voice your complaints about the products and services you purchase and receive. Given the current state of the economy, it is important to practice financial responsibility; these resources are intended to help you eliminate wasteful spending on the goods and services that are not fit for the purpose for which they were sold. Click here if you would like more information.

The rapid increase in defaults in the 7^th District is one of my principal concerns. To address this endemic threat, I have compiled a list of resources on the issue which could lessen the possibility of the title to your property being transferring in a Sheriff Sale. Click here to learn more about foreclosure prevention resources.

The Silver Scholarship Program provides a $1,000 education award, to be used for continuing education, to individuals over the age of 55 who complete not less than 350 hours of service in one year, carrying out projects of national need. This program will help close the gap between our nation’s shortage of mentors – there are only 500,000 in this country – and the millions of children and young adults in need of guidance and direction. I co-sponsored H.R. 1388 (Serve America Act), which incorporates provisions of the Silver Scholarship Program that I originally introduced to the House of Representatives through H.R. 1047. The Service America Act was signed into law by President Obama on April 21, 2009. Click here for more information.