The COVID-19 pandemic is raging, killing more than a quarter million Americans, with more than a million new cases in the past week. While cases are surging, millions of people are teetering on an economic cliff. By December 26th, 16 million people will have lost unemployment benefits. And on New Year’s Eve, the eviction moratorium expires, forcing struggling families from their homes.
We cannot allow millions of people to lose their economic lifeline. If they do, families will be forced to move into overcrowded conditions, leading to further spread of COVID-19. As jobless benefits expire, more families will be forced to decide whether to heat their home, feed their children, or sink further into debt. All of these hardships have a shamefully disproportionate impact on communities of color and people with low incomes.
Month after month, the Senate has failed to act. Meanwhile, every day we are getting closer to the expiration of critical programs that are keeping millions of Americans afloat. The House passed a comprehensive pandemic relief package in mid-May and again in October. But the Senate has failed to act.
The Senate must immediately pass legislation which:
There is no shortage of economic and health challenges that face our country. People cannot wait―aid must reach them now. Join CHN and our national coalition to demand the Senate finally act to pass essential COVID relief. Write your Senators today. Tell them we are facing a national emergency and public health crisis that demands immediate action.
The Coalition on Human Needs covers a wide range of issues related to low- and moderate-income people.
