Advocates Urge Louisiana Committee to Restore $250K for Families Helping Families Budget

The Louisiana Legislature's Finance Committee convened on May 22, 2025, to discuss critical funding issues affecting families with disabilities. The meeting featured heartfelt testimonies from individuals advocating for the restoration of $250,000 in state general funds to the Developmental Disabilities (DD) Council's budget, aimed at supporting the Families Helping Families program.

Maria Romero, a retired state employee and victim advocate, shared her personal struggles navigating the school system for her son, who was diagnosed with dyslexia. Despite her extensive experience in advocacy, she felt overwhelmed and unsupported in her efforts to secure appropriate educational resources for her child. Romero emphasized the importance of Families Helping Families, which provided her with the necessary support and guidance to advocate effectively for her son.

Elena DeSoto, mother of Jared, who has Down syndrome, also spoke passionately about the impact of the Families Helping Families program. She expressed gratitude for the Medicaid waiver that allowed her son to receive essential care and support at home. DeSoto highlighted the program's role in connecting families with vital services and urged the committee to protect and enhance funding for disability services.

Jude Boynton, a young adult with disabilities, shared his positive experiences with the Children's Choice waiver, which has enabled him to pursue his education and career aspirations in sports journalism. He underscored the significance of continued support for disability services, which empower individuals to lead independent lives and contribute to their communities.

The testimonies collectively underscored the urgent need for sustained funding for Families Helping Families and related services, as families navigate complex challenges in securing adequate support for their loved ones with disabilities. The committee's decision on the proposed funding restoration will be crucial in determining the future of these essential services across Louisiana.