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Two-Day Ice Cream Tour Brought Communities and Congressional Leaders Together to Share Stories and Rally Support for Protecting Social Security
(New Jersey) — On August 12 and 13, AARP New Jersey hit the road for a two-day, five-stop “Get the Scoop on Social Security” tour, bringing communities in Manahawkin, Manchester, Newark, New Brunswick, and Fanwood together to celebrate the 90th anniversary of Social Security with free ice cream and personal stories about the program’s profound impact.
At each stop, older adults, community members, and elected officials gathered to enjoy a scoop—and share their own “scoop”—about how Social Security has shaped their lives. Rep. Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-6), Rep. LaMonica McIver (NJ-10)’s Outreach Manager, Ashante Pope, and Rep. Thomas Kean, Jr. (NJ-7)’s District Director, Erin D’Auria joined in the celebrations.
“In New Jersey and across the country, Social Security is more than a check, it’s a lifeline earned through a lifetime of hard work,” said Chris Widelo, AARP New Jersey State Director. “Over ice cream and shared stories, New Jerseyans reminded us what’s at stake. For 90 years, Social Security has delivered dignity, stability, and peace of mind. AARP New Jersey will keep fighting to ensure it’s there for today’s retirees, and for our kids and grandkids tomorrow.”
The events are part of a nationwide effort to engage AARP members, elected officials, and local communities in a conversation about the role Social Security has played—and must continue to play—in helping secure the financial futures of Americans of all ages.
Nearly one in five New Jersey residents—1,698,504 people—receives Social Security payments, contributing $38.8 billion to the state’s economy each year. While most beneficiaries are retired workers, Social Security also provides crucial supports to individuals with disabilities, children, and surviving family members.
“Social Security is a lifeline for so many of my neighbors in New Jersey,” said AARP NJ volunteer Wanda Flowers. “We have to protect this program. We all worked hard and earned our Social Security.”
Social Security is one of the most successful and popular initiatives in American history, helping generations of Americans avoid poverty and live with dignity in retirement. In its 90 years, Social Security has never missed a payment. Today, nearly two in three retired Americans say they rely on Social Security for a substantial portion of their retirement income. It helps families keep a roof over their heads, put food on the table, and provides peace of mind that their loved ones are protected during retirement.
AARP New Jersey is committed to celebrating Social Security’s legacy while urging leaders to protect and strengthen the program—not just for today’s retirees, but for future generations. With every paycheck, younger Americans are paying into a system that will help secure their futures, and AARP will make sure their voices are heard loud and clear.
Connect with AARP New Jersey on X: @AARPNJ and Facebook: AARP New Jersey.
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