US
(2010-02-03)
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Dr. Sheila Schuster of the Kentucky Mental Health Coalition is one of the most ardent defenders of adequate funding for social service programs in the commonweath. Schuster, dressed in her signature bright, red jackets, is easy to spot as she makes her rounds at the State Capitol.
Photo courtesy Cabinet for Family and Children Services (Click image to enlarge)
FRANKFORT, KY (WEKU) - Proper funding for social service programs was the message, as hundreds of Kentuckians with disabilities, and their caregivers, rallied in the rotunda of the State Capitol. Also present was WEKU's Stu Johnson.
(CLICK ARROW ON BAR ABOVE TO HEAR STU'S REPORT)
The 874K Coalition represents more than 874,000 Kentuckians who have developmental, physical, emotional, or cognitive disabilities. In recent years, state lawmakers who participated in the annual event had to travel to Frankfort's Civic Center. But this year, participants made it easy on their elected leaders and held their rally at the State Capitol.
"And today is your day to let your voice be heard, because you count, you matter, and you vote," says a rally participant.
874K Coalition spokeswoman Sheila Schuster, who's a mental health advocate, is pleased the governor did not propose cuts at community mental health centers. But, Schuster adds such programs have been chronically underfunded for years. She says difficult financial times don't diminish the need for human services.
"And our message to the legislators is, we know that you don't have money, but our needs don't go away just because you don't have money," says Schuster.
None of the budget alternatives being considered by legislative leaders rely on new state revenue. But budget cuts, according to Schuster, would be difficult. Even now, she says there aren't enough resources to fund all the needed services.
"You know when you talk about re-prioritizing, it means that you're taking from somebody who has money now and giving it to somebody else," says Schuster. "And I don't want to get into that fighting over the crumbs."
Schuster argues Kentucky should consider structural changes to its tax system so the state has new and sustainable revenue that's also fair and adequate. The long time mental health advocate says such a legislative effort could occur right after the November elections.
Among those people attending the rally was Marian Spencer of Frankfort. Spencer represents the Brain Injury Alliance of Kentucky. For such people, Spencer says an independent lifestyle that provides employment and educational opportunities is important. She says one-on-one meetings with lawmakers can influence funding decisions.
"Yes I think it does," says Spencer. "I think knowing that they took the time to get here and to meet with them does have an impact."
Two similar events, with people from other sections of Kentucky will be held over the next month at the State Capitol.
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