Sequester Could Halt Ocean County Senior Meal Program

If the so-called sequester spending cuts take effect this Friday, Ocean County's home delivered meal program for seniors could be at risk of collapse.  One official isn't taking the news lightly and is being as proactive as possible under the circumstances.

Freeholder Joe Vicari has sent a letter to President Barack Obama urging him to keep the program, which is funded by the Older Americans Act, in place as is - regardless of what happens this Friday.  The county relies on the federal aid to provide hot and nutritious food to homebound seniors and the elderly in need.  Vicari says "it's the least they can do for the residents who built this country."

Vicari has been in touch with the County Office Of Senior Services and will reach out to faith-based organizations and charity groups if that becomes necessary.

Ocean County is home to more seniors than any other in the state, and the cuts could force them to stop providing nearly 26,000 meals.  Vicari feels the "government needs to cut elsewhere."

Nationally, there are fears the sequester could put us back into a recession.  Other programs offered by the County could be in jeopardy from transportation services to preventative care programs.