Putting hard-working families first in Washington County
Many families in our community face challenges every day. Despite working hard, being gainfully employed, and trying their absolute best, they still need a little help to make things work for their families.
When the youngest of Terry and Susan Hazlett’s three sons, Carrick, was born with Down syndrome, the family sought out early intervention services, funded by the state human services budget, and supports provided at school. After graduating from Trinity High School, Carrick received a waiver, which provides supports including aides who work with him on a variety of health and life skills, including going to the gym and paying bills.
The Hazlett family, and many others right here in Washington County, are working hard to take care of their families, despite being dealt a sometimes challenging hand. But many families need a little help from human services to really thrive and succeed.
In fact, many working people throughout our community achieve success in their careers, thanks to human services that help keep their family safe, provide care, and allow them to be gainfully employed. Without human services, absenteeism increases, productivity decreases and employers lose millions of dollars.
According to AARP Public Policy Institute, one in six full-time employees reports caring for an elderly or disabled member of the family, while seven out of ten of these same employees had to quit work, reduce their hours or rearrange their work schedules to accommodate their caregiving needs.
County governments are responsible for providing many of these services, but we rely on state funding to pay for these vital services. By taking away critical human services from hard-working, Washington County families who have a loved one in need of services, we will jeopardize our economy and workforce productivity. Legislators need to protect human services in the upcoming budget conversations. Let’s help ensure they do.
The State House passed a budget bill (HB 219) that supports increased funding for children and adults with special needs, which keeps families together and in the community. State legislators should support of increased funding for people with special needs.
Diana Irey Vaughan
Washington
Irey Vaughan is a Washington County commissioner.