Where was the money to help C.R.’s seniors?

Sometimes communities, just as people, can't see the trees for the forest. All too often politics and money get in the way.

Every day we see headlines in The Gazette such as “$50 million day for C.R.” or “Linn, C.R. hit $1 billion in flood aid.” And on it goes.

Now let me tell you about one of the trees in the forest: the Witwer Senior Center. It, too, was flooded out and today is trying to carry on thanks to the kind help of the Ecumenical Center and The History Center. Today the Meals on Wheels and Green Square meals programs are sharing a kitchen and cafeteria facilities. The creative writing class is being held at The History Center. Crafts and other classes are held in the cafeteria or conference room.

What's wrong with this picture? Of all the government funding mentioned above and others, not one thin dime is going to help the seniors of this community. Any so-called progressive community would use this opportunity to develop a multigenerational community center. Great on the millions for the convention center and upgrading the U.S. Cellular Center, but what about people living their daily lives here?

Maybe we can get some advice from communities such as North Liberty. Have we lost sight of who makes up this city?

Ray Dutchik

Cedar Rapids