Call to Action for Social Rec & Respite Services

Article

June 2017

All this year, advocates in the developmental services system have been impressing upon our legislators and Department of Developmental Services our view that restoration of services that have been prohibited or capped since 2009 due to the Great Recession will make a significant difference in supporting our clients with developmental disabilities., and their families.

In barely 24 hours, the Budget negotiations for 2017-18 will be done, and so will our chance to restore camping and social recreation, and lift the cap on respite. Advocates have already been calling. Please take a moment to call one or more of the following:

  • Governor Brown (email online or 916-445-2841)
  • The Department of Finance (email kris.cook@dof.ca.gov)
  • Senate President Kevin de León (916-651-4024)
  • Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon (916-319-2063)
  • Conference Committee Member and Senator for Long Beach area Senator Ricardo Lara,
    (916-651-4033)

Say “I am a constituent, and I support a Budget restoring camp and social recreation, and lifting the cap on respite services, to help people with developmental disabilities.”

High-value, low-cost services that make a difference!

Respite reduces the stress experienced by families and oftentimes allows a trusted relative or friend to provide the service. Some families prefer camp or social recreation services because of the added benefit of group social opportunities for the individual while the family is taking a break from their care. For some, a blending of these services meets their needs best. In 2009, many services, including these, were cut to save money.

In a recent Budget hearing, Democrats and Republicans both said they understand just how valuable these services are to our community. They are interested in restoring them. But we need to put the pressure on to make sure this happens! And we have to act fast, because our chance ends tomorrow, Thursday June 8th, when the hearings are finished.

Everybody must remind the Governor, his accountants, Senate President Kevin de León, and Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon, that bringing this back helps families!