Washington bill could cut funding for children’s disability services

SPOKANE, Wash. — Local nonprofits that help children struggling with developmental disabilities could soon see their funding cut.

The program at risk is called E-SIT, and it helps babies and infants with severe medical and genetic conditions such as Down syndrome and cerebral palsy.

JOYA Child & Family Development helps many Spokane families who need early intervention for their children. It provides programs that take care of children with disabilities by offering physical and occupational therapies.

But now, one of its programs could experience significant cuts.

“This is a very voiceless population that will be impacted, and unfortunately, they can’t stand up for themselves,” said Jessie Laughery, director of strategic programs and initiatives at JOYA.

Laughery is a staff member at JOYA, but she’s also a parent who benefited from their services when her son Jack struggled with a speech delay when he was two.

“The services here at Joya gave Jack a voice and we’ll be forever grateful for that,” Laughery said.

JOYA says the state is cutting these funds at one of the most critical times in a child’s brain development.

“In this window between 0 to 3, kids brains are very malleable. You know, there are areas of the brain still connecting,” Laughery explained.

If the bill passes, JOYA says this would directly affect their ability to provide physical, occupational and speech therapy programs. They say this is where babies and infants learn how to live and grow.

The bill would change how much money programs like theirs receive. JOYA estimates it could lose up to $1 million each year, which could result in families having to wait longer for these services.

For now, there’s no set date when the House Appropriations Committee will meet again. But staff at JOYA are reaching out to the community for support.

“Reach out to your legislators, whether it’s House or Senate, to encourage them to oppose this legislation,” Laughery said.