90 Years of Social Security: Strengthening Families, Communities, and the Future

By: Kristen M. Kiefer, Executive Director, Generations United

Last month, we celebrated 90 years of Social Security. As one of the most popular and successful public programs in America, Social Security now serves 73 million individuals and has lifted generations of Americans out of poverty.

That’s a milestone worth celebrating. But it is also worth remembering that Social Security is so much more than a retirement program. It is also a vital lifeline for children whose parents have died, become disabled, or retired. Nearly 10 million beneficiaries are spouses and children of deceased or disabled workers, and today, almost six million children under the age of 19 receive direct benefits. Millions more live in households supported by a Social Security beneficiary.

Even popular programs need diligent care and advocacy to thrive. When Social Security was first enacted in 1935, children weren’t included. Only four years later, Congress expanded coverage beyond older adults to families. But over 40 years ago, in a time of financial crisis, Social Security ended benefits for young adults ages 18–22 who are full-time college students. Today, many grandparents and other relatives raising children fear what will happen when those children turn 18, losing the benefits that help cover food, housing, and education, and facing an uncertain future.

Social Security is not just for retirees. It is for families, communities, and the future we’re building together. To keep that promise alive, we must speak up to restore the student benefit and remind lawmakers that children and students matter.

At 90 years strong, Social Security is more than history; it is a lifeline that can continue to protect and support generations to come.