Advocates hold Social Security Day of Action amid budget cuts and personnel reduction

INDIO, Calif. (KESQ) - Dozens of Democrats of the Desert and friends advocates gathered Wednesday afternoon in front of the Social Security Administration (SSA) building in Indio.

Organizers said they're trying to draw attention to what they describe as growing turmoil within the agency and threats to the program’s ability to serve Americans.

Debbie Green, participant, said the more people who get involved, the bigger difference they can make.

"Social Security matters. We've earned it. It's not an entitlement," Green said. "They need to get their hands off of our Social Security and leave it alone. Leave it to the people who have earned it."

However experts note the program is projected to continue paying most benefits even without congressional action.

SSA officials said, "As a result of changes to Social Security enacted in 1983, benefits are now expected to be payable in full on a timely basis until 2037, when the trust fund reserves are projected to become exhausted."

But some experts say without adjustments, the program will face a gap between income and obligations in the decades ahead.  

For now, advocates said they hope their actions will prompt more public discussion and spur a response from elected officials.

"I look at my children, they're already putting in money into Social Security. What's going to happen to them when it's their time to retire?" Green said. "We need to look out for everyone, not just for us, but for the future."

Stay with News Channel 3 for continuing coverage.