All ages are griping today about the budget cuts that affect them personally. We’ve heard this is necessary and we’ve heard some reasons why.

We have not heard of many political leaders who are “kicking in” their annual raises (including benefits) or worse yet, the so-called bonuses over and above salary, such as insurance, travel and office expenses and more.

Recently, I got a request for a donation to Meals on Wheels. Not being in a financial situation to make a donation, I will share the news with others who may be able to help. Yes, Meals on Wheels has suffered a cut, also.

By the end of September, due to sequester cuts and other budget reductions, Meals on Wheels will lose more than $40,000 in funding. In Cumberland and York counties alone, through the Southern Maine Agency on Aging, more than 3,400 meals are delivered by volunteers (yes, volunteers) to homebound seniors and those too frail to prepare a meal. This isn’t just a program to ensure good nutrition, it’s an opportunity for the volunteers to say “hello” and make sure all is well.

At a time when more people are turning 60, more seniors are living longer and more seniors are at a risk for going hungry, our leaders should be aware that more, not less, resources are needed to meet the community needs.

Perhaps there are employers who have a company policy of matching the donations of their employees. This would be an ideal time to take advantage of such a policy.

Anyone who would like to make a gift, any amount, can do so by contacting Southern Maine Agency on Aging, 396-6590, or donations can be made online at www.smaaa.org/donate.php.

And how many of us know what sequester means? Every day, new words for the same old thing.

Kay Soldier welcomes reader ideas for column topics of interest to seniors. She can be reached by email at kso48@aol.com, or write to 114 Tandberg Trail, Windham, ME 04062.