Cathedral Shelter Joins Rally Against Proposed State Budget Cuts
July 23, 2008
Cathedral Shelter of Chicago joined protestors Tuesday, July 22nd, at the James R. Thompson Center to urge Illinois legislators to vote against proposed budget cuts that could devastate substance abuse treatment, supportive housing and other critical community services.
According to the Chicago Tribune, Governor Blagojevich erased $1.4 billion from the fiscal 2009 budget passed by the legislature. Health care programs for the poor suffered most.
“This is not the time to balance the budget on the backs of the most vulnerable,” said the Rev. Glenn Chalmers, Executive Director of Cathedral Shelter, “Lines get longer for the basic needs… the waiting list grows for our addiction services and supportive housing. We see the need day in and day out.”
Hundreds of men and women—many of whom are in recovery—pleaded for their right to a second chance at life. Among the many voices heard at the rally was that of Cressey House resident Marilyn Love. “They’re trying to cut from the budget millions of lives,” said Marilyn. “So many people will be homeless, and so many more will be lost.”
Citizens are urged to contact their state legislators immediately and ask them to continue funding substance abuse treatment programs and supportive housing.
