Wednesday, August 26, 2009

HHH Goes to Raleigh


In light of crushing cuts to the state's mental health system, 10 members of HHH boarded a van to take their case to the state capital on Tuesday, July 21st.

Homelessness and mental illness have a historical link, most notably in the late 1970's and early 1980's when the shutting down of America's mental health hospitals led to a significant rise in people living on the street. Members of HHH wanted to make sure lawmakers understood that their proposed cuts to the mental health system would mean a rise in homelessness and in incarceration. The cuts would cut out most of the case management support services provided to individuals living with mental illness.

The group of 10 split into two smaller groups to ensure we could meet with every member representing Mecklenburg County. While face-to-face meetings did not happen with everyone, at least our information got to every office.

HHH considered the trip a great success. Not only did we being to build relationships with state legislatures and build confidence of members, but in addition, when the budget passed, an additional $990 million was put back into mental health budget. While this still represents a cut, it was much less than originally proposed.

HHH looks forward to future advocacy opportunities.

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