Recent layoffs at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) have raised significant concerns about the future of critical programs aimed at serving the elderly and disabled populations. These staffing cuts have left a substantial impact on essential services, including Meals on Wheels, which delivers vital food supplies to homebound seniors.
Alison Barkoff, the former director of the Administration for Community Living (ACL) under the Biden Administration, revealed that at least 40% of ACL staff received termination notices, with many being denied entry to their workplace last Tuesday. This agency plays a crucial role in overseeing federal policies related to aging and disability services.
The ACL is responsible for funding various essential programs, including senior centers and the distribution of 216 million meals annually through the Meals on Wheels initiative.
Barkoff emphasized the adverse effects of the layoffs, stating, “The programs that ACL implements improve the lives of tens of millions of older adults, people with disabilities, and their families and caregivers.” She highlighted that the reduction in force (RIF) would inevitably affect the services relied upon by vulnerable populations.
Following the announcement of layoffs, HHS stated that ACL’s responsibilities would be reassigned within the department. However, there are uncertainties regarding the future of ACL’s operations, especially in light of recommendations from Project 2025, which suggests reallocating ACL’s responsibilities to other divisions within HHS.
Moreover, staff members from the Division of Energy Assistance, which manages the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), were completely laid off. This program is crucial for approximately 5.9 million low-income households, providing necessary support for heating and cooling bills as well as home repair to enhance energy efficiency.
Former employees expressed their disbelief concerning the abrupt layoffs and their implications on the program’s sustainability, particularly with funding set to expire at the end of September amidst rising energy costs for low-income families.
“LIHEAP provides life-saving services,” stated Andrew Germain, a former compliance monitor for the program. He highlighted the importance of these funds in supporting low-income individuals who rely on medical devices or need to keep refrigerators operational for essential medications.
Despite Congress appropriating $4.1 billion for LIHEAP in fiscal year 2024, the future operation of the program is uncertain in the wake of these staffing changes, raising alarms for those who depend on such critical assistance.
Former program specialist Vikki Pretlow reflected on the dedication of her team, stating, “You can be paid much more in a different place, but the people I worked with have a great heart for service.”
