Kreider concerned about effects 
cuts would have on its clients

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DIXON – Like other organizations whose funding depends greatly on state grants, Kreider Services is hoping the General Assembly does not make good on a proposal to cut the Department of Human Services’ budget in half.

» Related story — Caregivers protest in Rock Falls.

If the funding is not restored, the cuts will begin to take effect July 1.

Kreider officials received a state memorandum Monday instructing agencies throughout Illinois to brace for major funding cuts.  

“This is extremely serious,” said Arlan McClain, Kreider’s executive director. “If this budget is implemented, these cuts will have a devastating consequence for 643 clients and 359 employees on our staff.” 

If the cuts go through, the state no longer will fund grant programs such as regular work/sheltered employment, supported employment, residential respite, in-home respite care, dental services, client/family support services, and The Autism Program. 

In addition, Kreider Services stands to see reductions of up to 30 percent in all other program funding, which includes services at 26 area residential sites.

McClain urged residents to contact their legislators to encourage that funding be restored to human services and that cuts be made first in non-human service areas.