Older Worker Program Receives More Funding from Congress

Last week, the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) received additional funding under the Older Americans Act. Funding for Administration on Aging programs was approved by Congress as a package of appropriations bills and a 44% ($254.5 million) increase will be administered for SCSEP.

The additional funding is in response to the record high unemployment rates among low-income seniors as a result of the recession. As recently as November, the unemployment rate for elders 65+ was 5.9%, according to the Urban Institute.

A number of elders are still seeking work opportunities to make ends meet, but many are not able to find the help they need. SCSEP is one way to help low-income elders move toward economic security. The program has already provided more job training and employment assistance through Recovery Act dollars. With additional funding in 2010, it will be better able to serve elders across the country.

For more information about SCSEP visit the Department of Labor website.