🔊 Play

URGENT:

NJ STATE BUDGET CUTS FOR CILs

Dear hipcil Friends,

The 12 New Jersey Centers for Independent Living (CILs), have lost their line-item funding from the state budget.  This decision represents a devastating setback to the disability community. The centers provide essential, life-changing services that enable individuals with disabilities to live independently, confidently, and with dignity. Serving all 21 New Jersey counties, the CILs provided over 102,000 consumer services last year alone, demonstrating their far-reaching impact. For decades, CILs have been a cornerstone of support, offering programs and resources that improve quality of life, foster self-sufficiency, and nurture inclusivity.

While it is understandable that the state is facing financial pressures and preparing for potential federal funding cuts, it is profoundly disheartening and unacceptable that these budgetary constraints have come at the expense of some of our most vulnerable community members. Disabled individuals often encounter countless barriers in their day-to-day lives, and CILs have been a critical force in breaking down those barriers and championing their rights.

Moreover, eliminating funding for CILs is not a cost-effective decision for the state of New Jersey, especially in light of the potential federal funding cuts.

The services provided by CILs not only empower individuals with disabilities but also generate significant cost savings for the state. By enabling individuals to live independently and reducing their reliance on institutional care or other more expensive state-funded programs, CILs help alleviate financial burdens on the state budget. Cutting this funding will ultimately lead to higher long-term costs for New Jersey, making it a shortsighted decision.

The impact of this funding loss extends far beyond the centers themselves.

It directly affects disabled CIL employees, thousands of individuals and families who depend on these services for their independence and well-being. Many of these individuals face unique challenges that cannot be adequately addressed without the comprehensive support and advocacy that CILs provide. From accessible housing, assistive technology and employment assistance to education, case management and community integration, the services offered by CILs are irreplaceable.

Despite this setback, we remain hopeful and determined. Solutions must be found to restore this critical funding and ensure the survival of our centers. The centers are more than just service providers; they are lifelines, safe spaces, and sources of empowerment. They play a vital role in creating a more inclusive society where individuals can thrive.

We urge community members and consumer advocates to come together and fight for the reinstatement of this funding.  Please contact your local NJ legislative offices and voice your concerns, “Restore State funding for the Centers for Independent Living”. The future of thousands depends on it. The work we do at the 12 New Jersey Centers for Independent Living is too important to abandon, and we are committed to the empowerment for individuals with disabilities and their families.

Sincerely,

Marily Gonzalez-Escobar

FUNDING ASSISTANCE

TESTIMONIALS

REVIEWS

Heightened Independence & Progress, Inc. is not in any way affiliated with the Health Insurance Plan of New York, hipcil of New Jersey, Inc. or their affiliates. Site Content: Copyright © 2004-2021 Heightened Independence & Progress, Inc. All Rights Reserved.