From State Rep. Sue Ness:
Unethical Slashes.
By now, the reality of the Trump Administration’s actions is becoming more clear as we work toward the end of May and the passage of a budget. I have been telling people that I expect we will have to return to Springfield throughout the summer as circumstances change with the more information we have. We may have to make adjustments in order to cover some of the most vulnerable populations in our State.
Last month I shared that the USDA cut the local food purchasing program. This is a program that paid mostly small independent owned farms to grow food that the State then purchased and distributed to 838 sites across the State of IL. These sites included food pantries and schools. This program helps democrats and republicans. This is not political. At the beginning of May, a small food pantry in my district was told that they can expect a 30% cut in the food they receive. That means it will have to be made up through State funding and donations from the public.
A few weeks ago, the Trump administration cut the Administration for Community Living Division, which was responsible for making payments to many programs that support people with disabilities and older Americans. In Illinois alone, the Meals on Wheels program costs 8-million dollars. We will have to find a way to cover that because it is vital to those who utilize it. My district office team and I adopted a weekly meal delivery route. I can say with absolute confidence that the people I’ve met are not bilking the system. This is a life saving program.
Late April, I met with a boys and girls club from my district. The administration cut the Americorp Program. That equates to 40 jobs just in my district from 2 clubs. Early May, the Department of Human and Family Services provided us with the estimate that for every 10% cut in Medicaid dollars (from the Federal Government) the State would have to pay $815 million in order to avoid any cuts in care or service.
This is the message that we must get out to everyone. I don’t believe that the majority of Americans agree with these cuts. Taking away money for meals on wheels is just cruel. It also doesn’t make any sense so let’s show our neighbors that we are looking out for them. If you can volunteer your time, please do. If you can donate some food or money, please do. We will list some food pantries in our district. All of them need our support right now. Also if you want to help with meals on wheels, reach out to the Kane Senior Council. They are always looking for more help.
D66 Food Pantries
