The federal government recently released a series of economic numbers that clearly add up to significant economic woes for many of us, not the least of which are our seniors on fixed incomes. On June 13, 2008, CNN reported that a “dramatic increase in energy costs were largely responsible for the overall inflation “…as energy costs rose 4.4% in May, and surged 17.4% over the 12 months ending in May”.

Additional information released by the government included the following:

• The index for fuel oil rose 10.4% in May and soared 64% over the 12 months.
• The gasoline index rose 5.7% in May and surged 20.8% on a year-over-year basis.
• The index for natural gas rose 5.6% in May, and was up 16.5% over the last year.
• Electricity costs also increased, but less dramatically, edging up 0.9% in May, and rising 5.8% over the last 12 months.
• The price of food also pushed up overall costs. Food costs increased 0.3% in May, and jumped 5.1% during the 12 months ending in May. The price of milk was a big influence on the overall price, increasing 10.2% over the 12 months, despite slipping 0.7% in May.

Sadly, as these indexes continue to climb, the costs of all associated goods and services climb just as dramatically. Taxes, fees, and services both nationally and locally have risen significantly; in many cases vastly outpacing incomes, particularly, fixed incomes. This is creating a climate in which many of our seniors are very near, or already at the breaking point, with no relief or hope in sight.

As each of us struggles to find our own solutions to the growing economic pressures facing our families, it is important to remember that there are those among us, right here in Sturbridge who have no options, no hope of finding solutions, and no hope of finding relief. These members of our community - seniors on fixed incomes - who have been the essence of our identity as a nation, and as a town, suddenly find themselves in great need.

Often times, many of these individuals who possess great pride and dignity, and who have worked tirelessly their entire lives asking for nothing in return, find themselves unwilling to reach out for help. Having contributed to society their entire lives, they are most comfortable and most familiar with providing for those in need, as opposed to being to being the recipient.   

Now, more than at any time in recent history, we are facing economic uncertainties that are crippling our economic vitality, and perilously endangering our seniors. With each passing day, the needs increase while available funds decrease, with the worst still yet to come.

We can help make a difference, by way of a simple $10.00 gift, that when matched with other gifts will grow into a fund that can bring meaningful relief to Sturbridge seniors. By joining the REAS Foundation 10K Circle of Friends, you can take great pride in knowing that your gift will be directed fully towards assisting Sturbridge seniors with demonstrated needs. Sturbridge residents helping Sturbridge seniors; that’s the key, to bringing relief to those among us in need.

Please consider sending your gift to:

REAS Foundation
P.O. Box 737
Fiskdale, MA 01518

Thomas R. Creamer

Executive Director

Inquiries may be electronically sent to:

info@reasfoundation.org

This entry was posted on Thursday, July 10th, 2008 at 7:11 pm and is filed under Uncategorized. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.