The impact that federal budget sequestration cuts will have on our area still remains to be seen.
However, if Congress can't reach a deal soon, some area organizations will be hurt. For example, funding would be reduced for Head Start and nutrition programs for seniors, women and children, including WIC and Meals on Wheels. Area food pantries would also likely see less money. Agencies including Citizen Action, Catholic Charities and the Southern Tier AIDS Program are urging Congress to come to an agreement and protect people who need it most.
Kathy Pfaffenback says, "The cuts are to the poor. The cuts are to people who have nothing already. Maybe our government feels if you take something away from nothing they're going to get something, but in the end we all lose because they are the weakest member of our society."
Throughout the week, we plan to take a closer look at how several local organizations could be impacted if the cuts remain in place.
