Workers Help Increase Funding for Developmental Disabilities Services

Members of SEIU Local 500 who work at Community Services for Autistic Adults and Children (CSAAC) in Montgomery County, MD joined together to win increased funding from the state for services to persons with autism and other developmental disabilities. 

Governor O'Malley had only included at 1.5 percent increase in his budget, however, Local 500 members were able to convince the legislature that more funding was necessary to provide quality care. The 3 percent increase will help cover all operating expenses, including gasoline, utilities, insurance, food, and personnel costs.

"We worked hard – we called lawmakers, wrote letters and emails, and visited Annapolis – during the budget fight.  What we did made an important difference!  During difficult times with a significant budget deficit, our contribution meant increased funding that might not have otherwise been available to meet the needs of individuals served in Community-based settings across Maryland – which could have meant an even more difficult job for us," explains Joseph Hallowell, a CSAAC employee and Local 500's Vice President for the Community Services Division.