FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, April 28, 2025
Contact:
Donald Campbell
Vice Chair
New Jersey Association of Centers for Independent Living
(609) 748-2253 ext. 5
dcampbell@atlanticcil.org
TRENTON, N.J. – Advocates from across New Jersey will rally on Tuesday, May 6, at noon at the New Jersey State House Annex in Trenton to demand the restoration of $3 million line item funding for the Centers for Independent Living (CILs) in the FY26 budget. #RestoreThe3Million
The New Jersey Association of Centers for Independent Living (NJACIL) is organizing the “No Cuts to CILs Rally” to oppose the complete elimination of the line item providing funding for New Jersey’s 12 Centers for Independent Living in Governor Murphy’s proposed FY26 budget. CILs are consumer-controlled, community based, cross-disability, non-residential nonprofits that support the independence and wellbeing of people of all ages with all types of disabilities across the state. #NoCutsToCILs
“At a time when the disability community is more vulnerable than ever, funding the Centers for Independent Living is more essential than ever,” said Donald Campbell, Vice Chair of NJACIL, noting that one in four New Jerseyans — 25% of the state’s population — lives with a disability.
The state’s 12 CILs have been exceptional stewards of the funding allocated to them. In the past year, they provided more than 102,000 consumer services and expanded programs to meet growing needs in underserved communities. Recent initiatives include enhanced peer support groups, a mobile CIL, accessible food security projects, mental health services, and employment skills training that allow disabled people to fully contribute to their communities. #CILsAndNJPerfectTogether
“Restoring funding for the Centers for Independent Living is a smart financial investment in people, opportunity, and the long-term strength of our communities,” said Marily Gonzalez Escobar, Acting Chair of NJACIL. #StrongCILsStrongNJ
Advocates stress that eliminating this line item would be short-sighted and fiscally irresponsible. Without this funding, the CILs would be forced to slash vital services, reduce programming and eliminate staff. Thousands of individuals and families who rely on CILs for independent living skills training, peer counseling, information and referral, individual and systems advocacy, and support for transitioning from nursing homes and other institutions into the community would be impacted.
“CILs save the state money by promoting independence, community integration, and reduced long-term reliance on more costly state and federal programs, including institutional care, down the line,” added Colleen Roche, Chair of the New Jersey Statewide Independent Living Council.
The rally will be held rain or shine. All allies, advocates, and supporters of human rights and community inclusion are urged to attend and raise their voices to restore this vital funding. To learn what you can do, visit: www.adacil.org/restore-funding-for-cils
Event Details:
What: No Cuts to CILs Rally
When: Tuesday, May 6, Noon – 2 p.m.
Where: NJ State House Annex, 145 West State Street, Trenton, NJ 08608
Flyer: www.adacil.org/upcoming-events-list/no-cuts-to-cils-rally
