March 24, 2014

Sen. Warren & Rep. Keating Applaud Restoration of Social Security Services on Martha's Vineyard

WASHINGTON, DC - United States Senator Elizabeth Warren and Congressman Bill Keating applauded the Social Security Administration's (SSA) decision to offer Social Security services on Martha's Vineyard via the use of video teleconferencing technology. Regular monthly visits to Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket by SSA representatives ended in early 2011.

Senator Warren and Congressman Keating had urged SSA to restore the critical services for residents on Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket in a December letter. Senator Warren also asked SSA Acting Commissioner Carolyn Colvin to resume services during a February meeting.

"Many seniors on Martha's Vineyard rely on Social Security to make ends meet, and the federal government should do everything it can to help people access these critical benefits," said Senator Warren. "I am very pleased SSA has decided to offer video teleconferencing services on the Vineyard so that residents can get the assistance they need."

"I am very pleased that the residents of the Vineyard and Nantucket are going to receive the social security services they deserve," said Congressman William Keating.  "Senator Warren, Representative Madden, and I have been consistently working at every level to ensure that the needs of our Islanders are met because it is wholly unacceptable to expect residents to commute off the Island for basic services. Now, residents will be able to engage and have an open dialogue with officials, and I commend the Social Security Administration for instituting this important resource."

The video teleconferencing services will be installed at a terminal at the Oaks Bluff Council on Aging. This service will allow island residents to speak directly with SSA representatives to conduct official Social Security business.

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