SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — A community seminar focusing on protecting essential programs like Medicare, Medicaid, and SNAP from potential funding cuts was the focus on Monday at Lackawanna College.
Organizers admit there’s no immediate threat to those programs right now. They believe in being educated and prepared for the worst.
The event, led by several local politicians, hoped to inform the public on what steps to take if funding is ever reduced, especially since these programs support the most vulnerable populations.
Attendees also shared firsthand stories from locals who rely on these benefits and why they are important to keep funding.
“I want people to have access to health care, and I want people to understand what would happen if there were any forms of a tax or lessening of insurance. You need insurance to access health care,” said Democratic State Representative of Pennsylvania’s 114th district, Bridget Kosierowski.
“Vast majority of people who have Medicaid are hard-working people. They’re children, they’re moms, they’re just ordinary people trying to do their best,” Luzerne County resident Susan Yugovsky explained.
Those in attendance were able to voice concerns while asking questions of both Pennsylvania representatives and senators.
