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Earlier this year, BOL members learned that the Astorino Administration had denied funding for 2015 (the first year of 3-year funding cycle) to two dozen proven providers participating in the County’s Invest-in-Kids (IIK) program, who were replaced instead by other, new providers. An attempt to restore funding for the providers failed in a June 2015 BOL vote, with Perez voting, as usual, with all of the BOL Republican to sink the measure.
“In a county budget of nearly two billion dollars, there should be more than enough money to pay for all of the youth programs serving us here in Yonkers and around Westchester,” said Abreu. “This is an investment we should be making without a second thought. If we are going to be serious about preparing the next generation for the challenges ahead, then these programs that are now without funding should be brought back on board as soon as possible.”
Abreu remarked that the Astorino Administration and Board of Legislators should be working together closely on expanding youth programs across Westchester, and added that after being elected to the BOL she will ask for a meeting with Dr. Iris Pagan, executive director of the Westchester County Youth Bureau to discuss this issue.
“I want Dr. Pagan to know that I will not rest until I see the County expand its commitment to our youth,” said Abreu, a mother of three children. Some of the providers denied 2014 IIK funding were Youth Theater Interactions, WestCOP, the Children’s Health and Research Center, the Center for Human Options and Open Family Medical Center.
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