2009 Year in Review

Public Invited to "Save Our Services" Rally

The Whiteside County Healthier Communities Partnership invites the public to show their support for human services at a rally on Thursday, June 18, from 4:30-5:30 at the YWCA of the Sauk Valley, 412 First Avenue, Sterling. The rally is a response to proposed 50% cuts in state funding for human services, which, according to members of the Partnership, will take a devastating toll.

“It’s important for people to know how severely these cuts will affect their lives,” said Carol Fitzgerald, Executive Director of the YWCA of the Sauk Valley. “If these reductions are enacted, there will be no one whose life is untouched. Whether it’s through child care, restaurant inspection, health services, mental health, services for victims of violence, or seniors, we will all notice a difference in our community.”

Representatives of many organizations will share stories reflecting the impact of the proposed cuts. Refreshments will be provided, and people will have an opportunity to contact their state representative, state senator, and the Governor.

“We hope people from all walks of life will attend,” said Beth Fiorini, President of the Partnership. “We all have the power to make a difference, and this is one way we can all come together to use it. The potential damage to our community will affect everyone. For examples, employers will be affected by the reduced availability for child care, and the education level of our workforce could drop if no GED services are provided. ”

The mission of the Whiteside County Healthier Communities Partnership is to create a healthier and safer Whiteside County. Its membership includes social service providers, schools, economic development professionals, and others working for the benefit of Whiteside County residents.

Reservations for the meeting are not required, and everyone is welcome to attend. For more information, call the YWCA at 815-625-0333.

by  Editor, theCity1.com
June 15, 2009