Connect with us on: 
Jeanne Majors
Brooklyn, NY
On May 4th of this year I was able to leave the NYC Shelter system for a room at the YWCA in downtown Brooklyn. How did this occur? Well, I started collecting early Social Security retirement benefits in March of this year and I was able to move in. Prior to this, I was in the shelter system from August 2010 because my retirement income wasn't enough to get affordable housing in NYC without a job (full time or part time). My savings were exhausted due to bills, transportation and helping a disabled younger sister (who is 45) with some incidentals.
If the Republicans look to take monies from Social Security to offset the deficit, then I can no longer afford to live at the YWCA and would have to go back to depending upon tax-supported dollars for shelter living. At 62, (single, and African American) this would be detrimental to my health and everything that I worked for. I retired with the thought that some employment for seniors would be available until I could collect my Social Security retirement benefits. Then I would be able to live somewhat comfortably.
I don't think our Congressional Representatives have any idea what it is to live on a fixed income, let alone skip meals or do without medications. They should try it sometime!!!!
Share Your Story
Retirement USA is collecting personal stories about people’s fears and concerns for retirement. Washington isn’t paying attention to the retirement concerns of workers and retirees, so we need to speak out. The stories will help show lawmakers the reality of the retirement income crisis.
Tell Us Your Story
Get Involved
Learn how you can give Washington the wake-up call it needs. Use our toolkit to get started.
What do you think?
Sign Our Petition
Tell Washington to wake up to the nation’s retirement crisis.
Sign Our Petition Today!
Get Updates
Sign up to receive updates about Retirement USA and “Wake Up, Washington!” Month as we work to highlight the need for a universal, secure and adequate retirement system.