As a parent of a child with special needs, I am deeply troubled by the proposed budget cuts to the Fairfax Falls Church Community Service Board. My son, currently in his final years of high school, has dreams and aspirations for the future, dreams that include working and contributing to his community. Unfortunately, this vibrant future my son and others like him dream of, hangs in the balance due to these proposed budget cuts.

The potential closures of entire residential treatment facilities for our children with mental health crises, the proposed halt on rental leases and funding for supported housing/independent living, and the elimination of $2.2 million in funding for residential, employment, and day services, are only some of the many ways these cuts will directly impact our children. The suggested discontinuation of secondary educational programs would deprive our children of the opportunities they deserve.

The proposed budget cuts will not only deter the path to independence for many, but they will also limit the potential of our children, forever changing the trajectory of their lives. Thousands of families rely on these critical services, and cutting back on them will further marginalize our children, leaving them disadvantaged.

We must speak up for our children, for their futures that are currently at stake. We must voice our protest against these cuts and call for a fair and just allocation of resources that adequately takes into account the needs of all members of our community, especially those who need it the most. Bring a voice of protest to the proposed budget cuts. This is not simply a budget issue, it's a human rights issue, and it urgently calls for our attention. I urge you to sign this petition and oppose the proposed budget cuts to the Fairfax Falls Church Community Service Board.