We've worked very hard over the past 4 years to maintain services despite serious cuts to our public health contract. From 2001 to 2005 we consolidated from a staff of 17 at two locations in western Massachusetts to a staff of six at one location. We will soon have only four staff – three of who travel extensively in the region.
Unfortunately, at a time when teen substance abuse, violence, smoking, and teen pregnancy rates remain too high and health care costs are out of control -- at a time when public health services are most needed -- budgets that were cut earlier this decade have not been restored. While we hope this trend reverses, we are acutely aware of the challenges ahead. We know that many of you rely on our services and we hope to continue to have your support, encouragement, patience, and advocacy.
If one of your priorities is prevention, it is vital that you speak up and contact your federal and state elected officials. Let them know you want prevention in your community. Youth prevention programs have been proven to work, save money in the long run, improve the quality of family and community life.
Thanks again for your support
