take a position promoting help for near seniors (50-64yo) who are being hit hardest by the current economic downturn.

This petition seeks to bring the needs and hopes of 50-64 year olds to the attention of the administration and the country. This group is being hit by unemployment, age discrimination in hiring, reduction in services at the local and state level, possible reduction in future benefits from entitlement programs, loss or increased cost of health care, and many other personal and social hardships. At the same time, the previous avenues of relief are declining. Their children have fewer resources, their homes have lost value, and there does not seem to be any where to turn for assistance. The administration can help by highlighting this group; and pushing for attention from both the public and private sectors. Don't let this group get lost between the debates for the 18-49 and the 65+.