Why Cutbacks in Disability Services Matter

By |Published On: May 15, 2015|Categories: News|

A man with Down Syndrome tends a gardenAs the father of a child with developmental disabilities, I am grateful to live in a country founded on Judeo-Christian values that upholds the inherent dignity and worth of all people, including those with disabilities. Through a variety of residential and social services, our nation has helped maintain quality of life for many with disabilities who simply desire to be a part of their communities and function like others in society. This is why I am deeply concerned over Governor Brown’s revised budget proposal and the declining funding and support in California for those with developmental disabilities. Over the years, funding in California for services has been slashed by over $1 billion, placing those with developmental disabilities in crisis.

If you don’t reside in California, let me encourage you to not turn a deaf ear to this crisis. It should be alarming to you that a state that for years has been held as a “model state” for inclusion and care of the disabled is slowly depleting the resources to this vulnerable population. But for residents of California, I encourage you to contact your State Senate and Assembly representatives and let your voice to be heard as one who “defends the cause of the poor and needy” (Jer. 22:16). You can do so by clicking here and inserting your area of residence. Let them know you are concerned about the limited funding of the California developmental services system and that you support increasing funding.

And for all of us who call upon the name of the Lord … let’s join our voices in prayer that God will move on the hearts of men and women in positions of legislative authority to “act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with their God” (Micah 6:8).

—Steve Bundy, Vice President of the Joni and Friends Christian Institute on Disability

Recent Posts