LANSING – The Disability Network/Michigan, a statewide coalition of 15 Centers for Independent Living, today praised State Representative Richard E. Hammel (D-Mt. Morris Township) for his work to increase funding for successful programs that enable Michigan residents with disabilities to become employed and live independently.
"The Disability Network/Michigan is extremely grateful to Representative Rick Hammel for his leadership and support of a $500,000 investment for our state's 15 Centers for Independent Living," said Mike Zelley, Executive Director of Flint's Disability Network. "This new investment recognizes the value of people with disabilities and helps give them tools to succeed, live independently and become Michigan taxpayers."
The state's 15 Centers for Independent Living served about 40,000 Michigan residents last year, providing job training and support services that help people with disabilities to become self-sufficient through employment.
As chair of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Economic Development, Hammel worked hard to ensure that the budget plan for the Department of Labor and Economic Growth included $500,000 in new funding for CILs. The centers have not received an increase in state funding in seven years. The plan was approved by the House last week.
"Taxpayers save more than $11 for every dollar the state spends on Centers for Independent Living because they prevent people with disabilities from having to rely on state housing and financial aid," Hammel said. "Everyone has the right to live independently and with dignity. I'm pleased to be able to support a program that does good work and saves our state money at the same time."