I am a Blair County resident and work closely with many individuals who have mental health diagnoses.
I am writing to oppose the idea of block grants to counties as proposed by Gov. Tom Corbett. I also oppose the proposed 20 percent cut to community mental health services.
This county has successfully developed a mental health system that has become more responsive to the needs of people with mental illness. People can and do recover from mental illness using services and supports that help them lead their daily lives with fewer struggles.
Homelessness, family disruption, hospitalization and even jail have been avoided when people and the system work together to meet people's needs.
The governor's proposal, if it becomes law, would likely devastate our local mental health system.
What will our county commissioners do to make sure that people with serious mental illness receive adequate care?
If these proposals go through, there is to be an end to general assistance for cash and medical benefits.
Take a stand and inform county commissioner, they need to do what they should to prevent the 20 percent cut and block grant funding proposal.
Margaret Thatcher, Altoona
