The State house steps were filled to the brim on Wednesday, June 3rd, for the rally that advocated for "no cuts" to funding for people with disabilities. Over 2000 people attended to show their support, including community members, families of people with disabilities, human service employees and those who receive services.

"Keep the promise" was the theme to ensure people, who have made such progress in the 15 years since the closing of the Ladd School, the institution in Exeter, RI, were not set back to times when community integration, involvement, and personal success was not possible. Human Service agencies have been able to provide services to assist people with disabilities to be active and contributing members of their communities and "budget cuts will surely hurt our most vulnerable members of society", says one mother who spoke at the rally.

Early reports from the State House look hopeful in that budget cuts will not be made for the start of the fiscal year (July 1), however, mid-year cuts are possible.

We encourage letter writing and phone contact with local State Representatives to voice for those who may not be able to voice for themselves.

Read more and view the video on the Projo website.