Trump Stops Critical Senior Services in Albuquerque
The Trump administration has paused a grant that would have brought a team AmeriCorps members to Albuquerque, blocking urgently needed help for homebound seniors and multigenerational families across the city. The decision, made under the administration’s so-called “Department of Government Efficiency” executive order, limits support for services like yard cleanup and building accessibility ramps.
Seven AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC) service members were scheduled to work 40 hours a week for 12 weeks, supporting the City’s Departments of Senior Affairs and Parks and Recreation. They would have started next week, expanding the City’s capacity to address safety repairs, mitigate fire risk in overgrown areas, and fix code violations for seniors who can no longer maintain their homes.
For a federal cost of just a modest living allowance—about $91 per member per week—the value of their work was immense. They would have helped hundreds of seniors this summer. That’s a massive return on a small federal investment. But now, due to political decisions from Washington, that support for seniors who need it most, is gone.
“Donald Trump has sunk to a stunning new low by picking on seniors,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “We had homes queued up and a team of young people ready to help seniors in need, and Donald Trump has ripped the rug right out from under them.”
Despite these challenges, the City is not backing down. The City is urging volunteers, nonprofit partners, and everyday residents to step up and help bridge the gap left by this abrupt federal halt. Community members can sign up to help seniors in need or apply to work at the City.
”I’d like Trump to look these seniors in the eyes and tell them he refuses to help them,” said Mayor Keller. “Something really stinks in Washington when the government decides to turn its back on seniors who are simply trying to live in dignity. Here in Albuquerque, nobody picks on our seniors, and we will defend them against bullies like Donald Trump.”
This is just the latest in a series of federal threats targeting city programs. From undermining law enforcement funding to attacking DEI language in senior services,Trump continues to put vulnerable communities at risk.
To get involved, visit the Defend ABQ webpage to track updates and get involved. Albuquerque will continue to protect its most vulnerable residents, no matter who’s in the White House.