(ST. JOSEPH, Mo.) Some St. Joseph families are sending local Missouri legislators back to Jefferson City with disabilities in mind.
Progressive Community Services gathered state legislators and families who deal with disabilities together for a luncheon Thursday.
Families shared how state funding has helped people with disabilities so much through different programs.
Legislators expect a small boost in this year's budget.
Progressive Community Services says any extra funds toward those programs can make a big difference in adults and kids.
"If we can help a kid early, chances of that child needing a lot of support later in life are far less, so we want to do the early intervention, and help people live in their community with as little support as possible," says Lynn Smith, of Progressive Community Services.
"We're able to hear all of their stories, some very educational stories, and we're able to take this information back to Jefferson City as we start the legislative process, and as we begin working on the budget next month," says Delus Johnson, State Representative for District 28.
Johnson says Missouri sales tax revenues are about 6% higher this year than they were last year.
He hopes to put new funds toward mental health programs, along with transportation and education.
Progressive Community Services gathered state legislators and families who deal with disabilities together for a luncheon Thursday.
Families shared how state funding has helped people with disabilities so much through different programs.
Legislators expect a small boost in this year's budget.
Progressive Community Services says any extra funds toward those programs can make a big difference in adults and kids.
"If we can help a kid early, chances of that child needing a lot of support later in life are far less, so we want to do the early intervention, and help people live in their community with as little support as possible," says Lynn Smith, of Progressive Community Services.
"We're able to hear all of their stories, some very educational stories, and we're able to take this information back to Jefferson City as we start the legislative process, and as we begin working on the budget next month," says Delus Johnson, State Representative for District 28.
Johnson says Missouri sales tax revenues are about 6% higher this year than they were last year.
He hopes to put new funds toward mental health programs, along with transportation and education.
