CWI’s Quaker Road Day Hab Program had some folks attend a Rally yesterday, March 23rd in Albany, NY to show support of the 11% COLA legislation. Paul, Tom, Janice, and Amanda represented ALL of CWI as they added their voices in advocating for their services they deserve by providing the 11% COLA their DSPs deserve.  A BIG shout out to Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara, a huge advocate over the years, for showing his support again!  Thanks to all for your ongoing support of this important legislation!  Here are some photographs of the rally…

 

For more than a decade, New York State did not make sufficient investments to sustain essential supports and services for New Yorkers with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).  Without adequate state funding, I/DD provider agencies have been unable to offer competitive wages needed to recruit and retain the skilled direct care staff that provide critical supports and services, resulting in a workforce crisis that has grown for over a decade. Governor Hochul’s Executive Budget is a critical step in the right direction of making investments and providing adequate resources for the I/DD service delivery system following more than a decade of cuts and neglect from New York State. Contact the Governor’s office and your local representatives to show your support.  Here are some helpful talking points provided by the New York Disability Advocates (NYDA) to discuss with them:

NYDA 2022 Legislative Priority Provider Talking Points_2.2.22

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