The Illinois budget stalemate has forced agencies to cut programs that serve many disadvantaged people in the Quad Cities. Last week, State Representative Mike Smiddy held a news conference to talk about it and give others a chance to speak out.
The democrat from Hillsdale says finalizing a budget will require compromise across party lines.
The ARC of the Quad Cities is one of many groups struggling to operate without state funding. It provides residential care and work opportunities for developmentally disabled adults. Director Kyle Rick says it's a crisis.
And Liz Sherwin, from the Illinois Center for Independent Living, says the center will have to cut jobs next year. And that could leave seniors and the disabled in the lurch.
Officials from other organizations also discussed the consequences of the Illinois budget impasse, including Transitions Mental Health Services and Alternatives for the Older Adult.