Hurricane Season is Approaching!
Act Today to Continue 2-1-1 Statewide Helpline 

On April 11, 2008, the Louisiana Department of Social Services (DSS) Secretary Ann Williamson outlined a plan to reduce the Department's Fiscal Year 2009 discretionary State General Funds by 5% ($4,146,167) in response to a request from the Health and Human Services Subcommittee of House Appropriations. 

Many nonprofits in Louisiana will likely be affected by these cuts, particularly LA 2-1-1, to which the state designates $750,000. Statewide United Ways contribute $1.5 Million of their funding to help provide this valuable service. 

The Louisiana Association of United Ways (LAUW) and the six LA 2-1-1 providers are currently partners in a full public-private partnership that has proven a successful national model. Louisiana is only five weeks away from the start of this years’ hurricane season and LA 2-1-1 is critical to the state’s efforts to remain prepared and ready during a time of crisis or disaster.  In addition, LA 2-1-1 serves Louisiana citizens daily as the lifeline of support for families seeking assistance and access to the vitally needed social services which help them remain independent and self-sufficient! 

In order to launch an effective advocacy campaign in opposition to cutting LA 2-1-1, LAUW would like you to make calls to the Governor, Speaker of the House, President of the Senate, Department of Social Services and Members of the Health and Human Services Sub of Appropriations.  LA 2-1-1 is too critical to Louisiana citizens; we must insist that they do all they can to support the continued critical funding of LA 2-1-1!

The three plans for proposed funding cuts are:

LAUW and LA 2-1-1 are urging you to contact your local legislative representative about the need for LA 2-1-1 today.

CLICK HERE TO FIND YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS.

For more information, please contact LAUW’s Charmaine Caccioppi at 504-827-6823.