For more than six decades, Social Security has been the cornerstone of survival for millions of Americans. Social Security has been a crucial component of our effort to ensure that older women, particularly retired women, are more financially independent. Many people of color, who have lower average incomes than whites, also depend on Social Security to prevent them from falling into poverty, and depend on Social Security's disability and survivor benefits. Social Security must be preserved in order to ensure the financial security of all people of color. Adults are not the only recipients of Social Security.
Children are among the most vulnerable beneficiaries of the critical benefits program.
Over the years, Social Security has insulated millions of children from poverty, hunger, and homelessness. Children under the age of 18 account for nine percent of Social Security's beneficiaries. Social Security helps keep approximately 1.4 million children out of poverty. Every month over 3 million children under the age of 18, and students 18-19, receive Social Security benefits. This money has been the source of much debate in Washington.