March 27, 2017

Whitehouse Delivers Meal to Warwick Senior, Pledges Support for Meals on Wheels

Trump budget proposal cuts funding sources for Meals on Wheels

Providence, RI – U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse today delivered a meal to Becky Yates, a Warwick senior citizen, as part of Meals on Wheels’ March for Meals campaign.  March for Meals is a month-long national effort to raise awareness for senior hunger and the benefit of programs like Meals on Wheels.

“After visiting with Becky today, I was reminded once again of the incredible difference Meals on Wheels makes here in Rhode Island by providing homebound seniors with nutritious meals and a connection to the community,” said Whitehouse.  “While President Trump’s budget proposal would jeopardize programs like this one across the country, I’m committed to standing up for our seniors and making sure those reckless cuts don’t come to pass.”

Meals on Wheels of Rhode Island receives a significant portion of its funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.  Under President Trump’s budget proposal that was released earlier this month, the Department of Health and Human Services’ budget would be slashed by 18 percent.  In some other places across the country, Meals on Wheels is funded through the Community Development Block Grants program, which the Trump administration has proposed eliminating. 

“We are honored that Senator Whitehouse is taking the time out of his busy schedule to deliver meals to our homebound seniors,” said Heather Amaral, Executive Director of Meals on Wheels of Rhode Island.  “His participation helps raise our visibility and ensures our aging population is not forgotten.  This continuing support is so important, especially during these uncertain times.” 

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Press Contact

Meaghan McCabe, (202) 224-2921
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