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Nonprofit asks finance panel for $75,000 to support Deaf Navigator program
Summary
Hope Community Resources and the Governor's Council requested a $75,000 increase to fund the Deaf Navigator program that helps Alaskans who are deaf, hard of hearing or deaf-blind navigate services, witnesses said.
Hope Community Resources and the Governor's Council of Alaska asked the House Finance Committee to include a $75,000 increase in the operating budget for the state—s Deaf Navigator program, describing the service as essential for Alaskans who are deaf, hard-of-hearing or deaf-blind.
"The Deaf Navigator Program provides essential support to Alaskans who are deaf, hard of hearing, or deaf blind, helping them navigate services and access resources," Michelle Jarreau, CEO of Hope Community Resources and board chair of the Key Coalition of Alaska, told the committee. Jarreau said the program has not received an increase since its inception and the requested $75,000 would allow it to continue serving clients.
Representative Galvin asked for clarification on whether the requested amount represented an unfunded item or an inflation adjustment. Jarreau confirmed the $75,000 was an increase to continue operations and to meet current needs.
The request was submitted as public testimony for consideration in the House operating budget (HB 53).
