My husband and I are guardians of our sister-in-law/sister. She resides in a John F. Murphy home in Lewiston. She has the mental capabilities of a 2-year-old and the physical dexterity of an 18-month-old. She needs supervision 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The Maine Legislature, in its infinite wisdom, has made cuts in the funding for the type of home she lives in. The state will no longer reimburse the group homes for meals. She has approximately $250 left after she pays for her room and board. She needs this money for medicines, dentist, eye care, haircut and clothes.
Since the years of the old Pineland Hospital, Maine has provided the least restrictive environment for these clients. Why are elected officials now balancing the budget on the backs of the most vulnerable of the state’s citizens?
Are we going back to the days of Pineland?
Joanne Zayszly, Leeds
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