On February 24, over 60 legislators, staff, and advocates joined us on Zoom for The Arc’s FY27 Budget Briefing, focused on protecting services for the IDD and autism community. We came together to review key priorities, including protecting essential services, strengthening the human services workforce, and ensuring long-term stability for the individuals and families we represent across Massachusetts.
A highlight of the event was hearing from self-advocate Jayden Christian, who shared her powerful lived experience and underscored why investment in these services are so critical. Jayden, thank you for sharing your incredible story.
Additionally, CEO Maura Sullivan shared her family’s story, illustrating the need to expand the DESE/DDS Residential Placement Prevention Program.
We’re also grateful to Senator Robyn Kennedy and Representative Jay Livingstone for speaking at the briefing, along with the many other legislators and staff who attended. Thank you all for engaging with us in this important conversation and partnering with us to advance these priorities.
