Mankato, MN—Today, Rep. Tim Walz commemorated Social Security’s 75th anniversary by pledging to protect the middle class way of life Social Security provides for many retired seniors. More than 50 million Americans rely on Social Security’s guaranteed benefits for retirement security or to make ends meet, put food on the table and stay in their homes. Social Security’s 75th Anniversary is Saturday, August 14, 2010.

“Today, I am reminded of a promise made 75 years ago—a promise of economic security and stability for Americans after a lifetime of hard work.  Over the years, that promise has been strengthened to protect Americans in case of severe disability and the death of a breadwinner,” said Rep. Walz.  “My dad died when my little brother was only eight and because of Social Security Survivor benefits, my brother is now a teacher in Minnesota – raising his family, paying taxes, and contributing to the community. Without those survivor benefits, he and my mother would have been out on the street and his future would have been bleak.”

Nearly 858,000 Minnesotans receive a Social Security benefit every month. The average monthly retirement benefit for Minnesotans on Social Security is $1,182.  Social Security benefits are available for retired individuals, disabled individuals, widows & widowers, and children of deceased individuals.

“I believe in Americans pulling themselves up by their bootstraps – but sometimes you need Social Security to lend you the boots so you can pull yourself up,” continued Walz. “I am proud to say that year after year, Social Security continues to deliver on its commitment to economic security. For three-quarters of a century, through 13 recessions, Americans have been able to depend on benefits that arrive on-time and in-full, and in honor of this milestone, I vow to continue to fight to preserve this program for generations to come.”

In the wake of the current economic crisis, Social Security is more important than ever.  Signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1935, Social Security was created at a time when the American economy had crumbled and was struggling to recover.  Pensions were almost non-existent, and a majority of seniors were unable to support themselves after retirement. Thanks to Social Security, millions of seniors today can live their lives with dignity and independence instead of poverty and despair.

For Social Security information by congressional district, click here.