Federal Funding Freeze Halts Senior Employment Program in Central Alabama
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WAKA) — Thousands of low-income seniors across the country — including many in Alabama — are out of work after the U.S. Department of Labor froze funding for a long-running employment program on July 1.
The Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP), operated locally by Easterseals Central Alabama, has trained and employed seniors for more than two decades. The program provides older adults on fixed incomes with job training and part-time work at nonprofits while promoting intergenerational mentorship and community engagement.
Now, that future is in limbo.
Lela Carrick, 83, is one of many seniors impacted. Known for warmly greeting visitors at Easterseals, she said the program has given her more than just a paycheck.
“I know most of the children who come in. Some even give me a big hug,” Carrick said. “It makes me feel good that they remember me. It’s just a joy.”
Carrick began working part time through SCSEP and says the opportunity has helped her stay active and sharp.
“It’s given me a new perspective that people my age can still be a part of the workforce,” she said.
Before the funding freeze, SCSEP in Central Alabama received $1.7 million annually from the Department of Labor — enough to support 200 low-income seniors aged 55 and older. Participants earned minimum wage while gaining job skills in roles such as clerical work, kitchen staffing, and community outreach.
“These are individuals living at 120% of the poverty level. They face significant barriers to employment,” said Debbie Lynn, executive director of Easterseals Central Alabama. “Many have experienced housing and food insecurity. Some are veterans. This program was not a handout — it was a hand up.”
Lynn said the program has allowed older adults who once cared for families or held jobs to regain their independence.
Last year, 364 seniors served in nonprofits across the region, including Meals on Wheels of the Montgomery Metro Area. But in June, all were furloughed until further notice due to the funding delay.
“We lost seven people from our kitchen staff,” said Chris Turman, CEO of Meals on Wheels Montgomery. “It’s made things more difficult for the rest of the team every day.”
Easterseals has not received an update from the Department of Labor about whether funding will resume.
“This program is not political, and it’s not a failed program,” Lynn said. “This is a successful program and it’s greatly needed. To me, it really embodies exactly what I think this administration would embrace because it isn’t a handout.”
Easterseals has contacted Alabama’s congressional delegation, which has made inquiries to the Labor Department, but no decision has been announced.
Easterseals Central Alabama serves 16 counties, spanning from the Georgia state line up to Talladega and down to Mobile.
