NEW: Sen. Ruggerio Donates Raise to Food Pantries
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
In light of a constitutionally-mandated $453.94 increase in legislative salaries that took effect this month, Senate Majority Leader Dominick J. Ruggerio (D – Dist. 4, North Providence, Providence) is donating $250 to Saint Anthony’s Food Ministry in North Providence and $250 to Saint Edward’s Food & Wellness Center in Providence. These are two organizations which Senator Ruggerio has long supported because of the effective assistance they provide to residents of the community.
“In today’s tough economic times, the assistance offered through Saint Anthony’s Food Ministry and Saint Edwards Food and Wellness Center is more needed than ever,” said Senator Ruggerio. “These two agencies are close to my heart because they make such a tremendous difference in our community.”
The automatic cost of living adjustments set forth in the Rhode Island Constitution are tied to the consumer price index. That translated into a decrease in pay in 2010. However, with the salaries increasing now, while many Rhode Islanders are still struggling to make ends meet, Senator Ruggerio said it sends a positive message if these funds are used to help those who most need assistance.
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“Many everyday Rhode Islanders are experiencing very difficult times. Public employees have been asked to make many sacrifices, and cuts have been made to services provided by the state. This donation is my way of expressing my appreciation for those sentiments while supporting two very worthy causes that help our neighbors in times of need.”
