To the Readers’ Forum:

In the proposed upcoming United States 2018 federal budget, the elimination of many vital federally funded programs, threatens to have a highly detrimental effort upon our communities.

Two federal programs functioning beautifully in our communities are under attack – Chautauqua County Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) and Lutheran Foster Grandparent Program (FGP) – as they are overseen by the Corporation for National and Community Service, a piece of the national budget apparently proposed for elimination.

Both the RSVP and the FGP are programs locally sponsored by Lutheran in Jamestown. These two program solicit, train and support senior volunteers. Jointly the projects have over 900 volunteers enrolled serving at 100 plus schools and not-for-profit organizations. The volunteering produces annually over 120,600 hours of service represents a major effort at community enhancement and growth. The lives of senior volunteers is enriched, as they are assigned “purposeful activity”, provided reason to “get up in the morning” and help our communities.

Our volunteers allow our communities to consistently and efficiently offer services and support to citizens and programs in need.

Soon deep discussions regarding the 2018 budget will be undertaken. The cuts currently suggested represent a minute portion of the total budget, but they can have devastating effects on local program and against our senior volunteers. I ask that you contact our federal representatives and urge them not to allow these cuts.

Debbie Basile,

Jamestown

Project Director

Lutheran Foster Grandparent Program

Chautauqua County Retired and Senior Volunteer Program