Faith-based and community aid organizations from across Pennsylvania are urging state lawmakers to undo plans to kill a Depression-era program that provides about $200 a month for tens of thousands of disabled adults who can't work.
The coalition of more than 100 groups released an open letter last week. It includes the AARP, the United Way and Catholic, Methodist, Lutheran and Jewish groups.
They're asking lawmakers to restore the General Assistance program in its entirety or, at minimum, to restore key components. They say the program protects those most in need and saves taxpayers' money.
Governor Tom Corbett, a Republican, advocated doing away with the $150-million General Assistance cash benefit in his budget plan. Senators also voted for an alternative budget that would eliminate the cash benefit.
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