Ulster executive says federal freeze on social services programs will hurt those in need

KINGSTON – Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger, a Democrat, said the Republican administration in Washington “has all the appearance of being politically motivated” with its just-announced freeze on social services program funding since it only targets a handful of Democratic states including New York.

She said in New York, counties administer those funds, Republican counties will be hurt just as much as Democratic ones.

“This is incredibly punishing, potentially, to so many people – families, seniors, children – who depend on these supportive programs,” she said.

While Washington has yet to provide guidance to county governments about the cuts, Ulster will not let its people go without emergency shelter or other basic needs. “We will continue to protect residents to the best of our abilities,” she said.