ABCD's October 8th Shut Down the Shutdown Rally

On Tuesday, Oct. 8, Action for Boston Community Development, a Boston’s anti-poverty agency, hosted a powerful press conference to address the impact that the federal government shutdown is having on Massachusetts' most vulnerable residents.

The event featured John MacPherson, an 87-year-old veteran who served our nation in WWII and who now relies on heating assistance to make ends meet on his limited income. According to MacPherson, if the shutdown isn't resolved to restore the home heating program, he could literally freeze this winter.

Also speaking at the event was Paola Garcia, who talked about how the shutdown is affecting her child's access to Head Start and her English as a Second Language class.

The personal stories these two shared represent countless others from across Massachusetts. From our youngest children to aging adults, the shutdown is impacting everyone.

John Drew, ABCD President/CEO, also reminded us that we can each help end the shutdown by using CAPWorks.org to reach out to friends and family around the country and let them know the importance of our programs and how important it is that we "shut down the shutdown" as soon as possible.

Also speaking at the event were Undersecretary of MA Housing & Community Development Aaron Gornstein; leaders from other nonprofits and associations representing Head Start, aging adults, and other community services; and representatives reading statements on behalf of Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Sen. Ed Markey, Rep. Michael Capuano, Rep. Stephen Lynch, and Gov. Deval Patrick.

Check out the video below to see the highlights:

Below is print media coverage:

• Fuel aid in Mass. halted by shutdown
• Shutdown will cause federal funding for Section 8 to dry up Nov. 1, Massachusetts housing official says

"Speaker Boehner OPEN UP the United States Government!!!".

By John J. Drew

President/CEO, Action for Boston Community Development, Inc.

The current situation in Washington, DC by the U.S. Congress is an abomination! They are playing politics with the poor and with the US economy.  It is unacceptable! Community Action must stand up to this nonsense!!  I ask that you contact your U.S. Congressmen and Senators right away.

Can we tolerate a country where, within a short period of time, there will be no meals for homebound elderly, no formula for infants, no deliveries for oil heat households, and no social security checks sent out? For the millions being harmed by Congress' actions we plead, "Open Up the U.S. Government". America is the world's bright light. Mr. Speaker, you and the minority members of the House Republicans whom you lead are tarnishing that light and bringing misery to the innocent victims of your political fight.