KNOXVILLE (WVLT) – As the president was preparing to address the nation’s economic difficulties on Wednesday evening, several senior citizens living in East Tennessee were worried about finding jobs.
“I was looking forward to it, but jobs are scarce right now," said Betty Warren, a senior, caring for her mother who suffers from Alzheimer's.
She isn’t alone. Harold Terry has already been a chemist, a high school teacher and a college professor, but now he is one of millions of seniors out of work and looking for a new job.
"It's a little disappointing, but I'm willing to deal with it," said Terry, who takes a comical approach to his struggles. “I just haven't decided what I want to be when I grow up."
Many seniors find themselves in the same position, having worked hard most of their lives, saved some money, and retired. The problem is that with rising energy prices to go along with the already high cost of food and gasoline, they can’t afford to live just on social security.
“I am trying to live on Social Security, but its hard,” said Gwen Burke, who at 82 years, lived through the Great Depression. “I don't think you can help but be a little scared."
While Gwen lives on a fixed income, Betty, Harold and others are trying to improve their chances of getting a job by attending weekly workshops that teach resume techniques, interview skills and clerical tips.
If you are over the age of 50 looking for a job, you can call the Knox County Council on Aging at (865) 524-2786. They will be hosting a job fair for seniors on October 15 from 10 AM until 12:00 PM at the LT Ross Building on Western Avenue. For more information, you can click on the link below.
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