Keep Your Promise - Don't Cut Our Lifeline

May 1, 2012 - PRLog -- The “Keep Your Promise – Don’t Cut Our Life Line” Rally will bring attention to the promise Governor Corbett made during his campaign. At the time Corbett said, “Supporting our most vulnerable citizens is a core function of government.”

There are concerns regarding the people in wheelchairs. Previously they have not been allowed in the Capitol on the Governor's floor since the current administration considers them a "threat". A lawsuit is pending and hopefully they will allow these people access to protest the cuts concerning them deeply.  Numerous families and people affected by the cuts and the continued decreases in funding will be available to share their stories and for comments. The Keep Your Promise Rally is expected to bring over 1000 people statewide.

Mr. Tom Carasiti, father of Glenn Carasiti, 21 years old, lives in Pike County. Glenn has severe autism, ADD, anxiety and OCD. About 2 years ago Glenn said, “Mommy, I want to die, go to heaven and Jesus make me born again non-autistic”. This was one of the saddest days in Tom and his wife Teri’s life. Fortunately this is not something Glenn perseverates on, it only comes up when he wanted to learn to drive or kiss a girl…neither of which he is ready to do. Today, Glenn’s school provides a sheltered job program where under careful supervision, he packs, labels and boxes auto supplies for Sears and K-mart. Glenn is learning that having a job lets you earn money to improve the quality of your life. In June when Glenn graduates he will no longer have a job to go to and without this opportunity, not only will Glenn lose his sense of belonging and purpose, but one of Glenn’s parents will have to quit their job to stay home and take care of Glenn.

Another one of the speakers is expected to be a 88-year old mother with her son Walter: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v55JLdPqjDE



Additional Expected Speakers Are
•   Nancy Richey – SAFA (Self-Advocate & Family Alliance)
•   Maureen Devaney – Vision for EQuality
•   Sheila Stasko - PA Waiting List

PA Representatives:
•   Gene DiGirolamo
•   Thomas Murt
•   Deberah Kula

PA Senators:
•   Daylin Leach
•   Stewart Greenleaf
•   Senator Blake
               
Members of the press are encouraged to arrive early for one-on-one interviews