Press Conference: Proposed Cuts for Intellectually Disabled Pennsylvanians Dangerous and Costly

March 26, 2012 - PRLog -- WHAT:   The purpose of the press conference is to show media the faces of those affected by the Department of Public Welfare’s proposed cuts for services to Pennsylvanians with intellectual disabilities. Several affected families will be available to share their stories and for comments.

WHO:    Mr. Brian DeShields, a 54-year-old man with intellectual disabilities.  Brian lived with his 74-year-old mother and was not receiving any support services. He was alone with his mother when she fell down a flight of steps - his mother suffered for three days before she succumbed to her injuries.  Although Brian could stay in his home with a few support services, he likely faces institutionalization at triple the cost to taxpayers.
Pamela Fludd lives with her 50-year-old brother Jasper who has intellectual disabilities.  She is her brother’s sole caregiver.  He cannot be left at home unattended since he needs help with most of his daily living skills. Currently, Pamela is unable to work therefore her financial situation is extremely difficult but there is no one else to help care for her sibling. Just like for Brian DeShields, an institution is the only alternative, but for Pamela Fludd, that is not an option.





Additional Families are:
•   SuAnn Brenner
•   Carol Perlowski

PA Representatives:
•   Gene DiGirolamo
•   Thomas Murt

Nancy Richey, the head of SAFA (an organization representing 12 disabilities organizations across the commonwealth) will also be on hand to provide an overview of the current deficits in services, as well as a projected impact analysis of the proposed cuts.


Members of the press are encouraged to arrive early for one-on-one interviews since participants will be testifying at a hearing immediately following the press conference.

Contact Karin Annerhed-Harris 215-806-6450, kannerhed-harris@visionforequalityorg for more information.

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