State cuts threaten Red Tape Cutters

The board of directors of the North Shore Senior Center wants the public to be aware that a very valuable resource for older adults - the Red Tape Cutters Program - is in danger of being eliminated by way of state budget cuts.

This program, which helps seniors determine which benefits, programs and agencies are available to them, is set to be terminated on July 1.

Currently, Red Tape Cutters receives more than $850,000 in state funds for its 20 Chicago and suburban Cook County locations.

This money allows for Red Tape Cutters staff members and volunteers to visit senior groups, park districts, clubs and churches to inform seniors about benefit programs that could assist them.

Armed with laptop computers, these individuals help seniors apply for rent-subsidies, energy assistance, Medicaid, food stamps, Social Security benefits or property tax relief on the spot.

Red Tape Cutters are a lifeline for seniors who do not have Internet access or who find the various online application forms too complex or time-consuming.

For older adults who have no immediate family to care for them, the Red Tape Cutters can step in to save them precious dollars every month.

When those extra dollars mean the difference between being able to afford one's medication or having to go without it, they take on tremendous significance in a senior's life.

When deciding where to cut funds in the new state budget, lawmakers would do well to consider that seniors are deserving of society's care and assistance.

To take the Red Tape Cutters Program away with a few swipes of the pen (or clicks of a mouse) would do a disservice to many.

Sandi Johnson

Executive Director

North Shore Senior Center Northfield