Candidate Schiff Brings Issues and Ideas Directly to the Voters

While walking door to door and listening to voters, one thing is clear to Rebecca Schiff: the status quo is not working for many members of our community.

“Look at our seniors,” states Schiff. “While local media highlights the grandstanding of long-term incumbent politicians during golden anniversary celebrations, one such recently promoted in Jamestown, they missed the reality that many seniors have lives that are not so golden—but rather tarnished by lack of affordable housing, high taxes, and health care costs far above the national average.”

“I hear it every day when I canvass the streets of Jamestown and Middletown. People who have lived and worked in our state for the better part of their lives are forced to leave because they cannot afford to stay here,” stated Schiff. Rhode Island consistently ranks as one of the worst states to retire—while incumbent politicians eat cake and offer a few kind words.

“Kind words are not enough—my 10-year incumbent opponent has overseen a decade of an utter lack of senior housing and wait lists of over 18 months,” stated Schiff. The Newport Daily News reported on July 22, 2018 that Middletown still does not offer municipal affordable senior housing. And the Providence Journal reported on August 28, 2018 that victims of senior abuse don’t have a safe long-term place to go to live away from their abusers.

What has the 10-year incumbent been doing to protect and uplift our senior community? She will tell you she got the governor to increase funding to local governments and non-profit organizations in the state.

Once again, we ask a RI legislator, where did the money really go? And after a decade of incumbency, why is there a shortage of affordable senior housing in this district?

Schiff’s plan is to give dignity to seniors by making their issues a state and local priority. “I intend to work with the local town councils in Middletown and Jamestown to find better options for senior housing; and work with state agencies to make certain that abused seniors have a safe place to go long-term. I want to strengthen laws against elder abuse.”

“I also want to create a pilot senior advocacy program that truly helps seniors age in place. I remember how important it was for my late mother to have me as her advocate. Many island bound seniors need transportation and assistance getting to doctors, pharmacies, grocery stores and friends’ homes. They need advocates to assist in filling out forms, speaking with health care professionals, and reaching out to family members.”

“I intend to look beyond Rhode Island and see what other states and countries do to protect and advocate for their seniors. I want to bring those best practices and policies back home.”