Congress has a serious priorities problem - and it will mean less food and health care for people in need if you don't set them straight.

It's unthinkable that Congress might cut Medicaid, Food Stamps, TANF and other vital services for people in need - whose numbers have shot up because of the hurricanes. But these cuts are now scheduled for action in Congress starting the week of October 17.

It's even more unthinkable that Congress may cut even more deeply! Reacting to the cost of Katrina recovery, powerful voices in Congress are now calling for deeper cuts across domestic programs. But they have not stopped the plans for still more tax breaks to the well-off. These are dangerous choices.

Call Your Senators and Representatives on October 17 or 18 –Tell Them These Cuts Are Unthinkable!

For a PDF flier with this information, click here.

For background on cuts, click here.

HOW TO CALL:

Step 1: On October 17 or 18, call 1-800-426-8073 to be connected toll-free to the Capitol Switchboard. Ask to speak to one of the senators from your state.

Step 2: When the senator's phone is answered, say:

"My name is ___________ and I live in [your town/city]. I would like Senator [name] to oppose $35 billion in cuts to Medicaid, Food Stamps and other vital services, and to oppose $70 billion in more tax cuts."

"The right priorities are protecting people from sickness and hardship, investing in housing, jobs, and other services that families need – not squandering billions on tax cuts for the well-connected."

Step 3: Use the toll-free number in step 1 and call your other senator and your representative. If the lines are busy, please be patient and try again. Or, dial their direct lines (not toll-free) - find the numbers at www.senate.gov and www.house.gov.