economy
This federal program trains older workers. The Trump administration wants to cut it
The Senior Community Service Employment Program provides older, low-income individuals with an opportunity to train for work. But its future is uncertain.
TL;DR
- SCSEP is a federal program created in 1965 to provide job training and community service opportunities for low-income individuals aged 55 and over.
- The Trump administration has proposed eliminating SCSEP's funding, arguing it is an ineffective and duplicative program.
- Program participants and advocates state that SCSEP is a crucial lifeline for hard-to-serve individuals, providing essential income and skills development.
- A previous funding pause in 2023 led to significant difficulties for participants, including loss of income, increased homelessness, and health decline.
- Despite scrutiny and proposed cuts, SCSEP continues to serve tens of thousands of older adults annually, with participants expressing a strong desire to work and regain self-sufficiency.