July 2, 2008

AUGUSTA, Ga.---Seniors at the Sand Hills Community Center are enjoying the retired life. But with the rising price of everything from food to gas, those on a fixed income are paying the price.

Marian Plowden is doing her best to keep her head above water. As the price of food and gas keep going up, her check stays the same.

"I'm surviving, that's all you can say is survive. They encourage people my age to participate, get out and do things but with gas prices being so high, we can't afford to get out anymore," said Mary Plowden, Sandhills Community Center Senior.

But the pinch isn't just at the pump--its also in the grocery store.
Some seniors are having to choose whether or not to buy staples such as milk, bread or eggs.

"I might do without the eggs because i can't go get any," said Mattie Williams of the Community Center.

But the center is doing what it can to help out.

"We do have a meal each day at noon, a brown bag program and a takeout program for the home bound," said Ann Knighton, Sandhills Senior Program Assistant.

The program is helping these seniors out alot.

But Marian needs more.

"People my age can't work, you're on a fixed income and if things aren't reasonable, you can't survive."

You can contact the CSRA Regional Development Center at (706) 210-2000 to find out how to join a program near you.