(Syracuse, NY – March 6, 2013) As an organization run by and for people with disabilities in Central and Northern New York, ARISE will join with other local organizations and community members for a rally this Friday, March 8 from noon to 12:30 p.m. at the State Office Building in Syracuse to oppose proposed 6% ($120 million) across the board cuts affecting services for people who have developmental disabilities.
“These cuts threaten much of the progress that has been made in correcting past inhumane treatment of people with developmental disabilities. The proposed cuts will directly impact people who live with their families and in our communities,” said Tom McKeown, Executive Director of ARISE. “Individuals are at risk of institutional placement if their community supports are compromised, which will result in far greater costs. Clearly such an outcome is not in the best interests of individuals or the state budget.”
Over the past several years, individuals with developmental disabilities have greatly benefited from the opportunity to take part in activities available to others as they shop, attend school, and participate in the community. Funding cuts would mean that these activities would have to be limited if non-profits are forced to shoulder the cuts.
McKeown said that “State requirements of service providers have increased significantly, particularly over the past few years, with regulations changing at a rapid rate. This governor has been attentive to the risks faced by individuals with disabilities when needed supports are reduced. He cannot urge policies that prevent abuse and neglect, and then simultaneously reduce community services without finding that such risks increase.”
About ARISE
ARISE is a non-profit Independent Living Center run by and for people with disabilities. The organization has been providing advocacy and services since 1979, and each year ARISE works with approximately 4,000 people of all ages who have all types of disabilities. ARISE has offices in Onondaga, Oswego, and Madison Counties and operates ARISE at the Farm, a 77-acre recreational facility in Chittenango, NY, and ARISE & Ski at Toggenburg Winter Sports Center in Fabius, NY.