CBS19

A member of Virginia’s congressional delegation wants to hear from people who have benefited from meal delivery services for seniors.

Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger has launched a survey to collect information on the use of programs such as Meals on Wheels.

According to a release, this is in response to a House Republican Conference proposed debt limit plan, which would cut such programs.

Seniors, caretakers, children, grandchildren or other loved ones of seniors who rely on these programs are asked to contribute.

A recent report from Politico says the administration has identified one million seniors, most of whom are home-bound, who would lose access to food through the Meals on Wheels program under the debt limit plan.

The release says proposed funding cuts tied to fiscal year 2022 budget levels would jeopardize the ability of Meals on Wheels to meet the growing demand for nutrition services across the country.

“Meals on Wheels volunteers serve nearly two million home-delivered meals to Virginia seniors each year. But that statistic does not just represent reliable meals, it represents moments shared and invaluable reminders that their community cares,” said Spanberger. “Shortsighted, ill-advised cuts to Meals on Wheels threaten a program with a track record of success throughout Virginia. As we work to avoid a default, we can’t let our most vulnerable neighbors become pawns in these political games. Virginians who have seen the benefits of Meals on Wheels in their own lives or the life of a loved one are the best advocates for this service, and I hope that many of our neighbors share their stories.”

Meals on Wheels services homebound, rural and/or isolated seniors, helping to keep them healthy and independent in their homes.

The survey can be found here.