Social services to be affected federal budget cuts
CRESCENT CITY — Uncertainty abounds on what could happen in Illinois if lawmakers in Washington don’t do something to avert automatic budget cuts set to kick in on Friday.
Carol Beaney of Crescent City arranges a ride in a van equipped with a lift for her power wheelchair whenever she heads for a doctor’s appointment. The service helps Beaney live more independently in her own home. Losing transportation could hasten a move to a nursing home or other institution for people like her.
SHOW BUS director Laura Dick says county governments could not make up the shortfall in funding.
In Chicago, Lutheran Social Services Illinois is bracing for a $53,500 reduction in federal funding for mental health and substance abuse services.
Officials say thousands of senior citizens could face losing free, taxpayer-subsidized meals.