July 2, 2020 | Issue #48
The Need For Equity, Now More Than Ever Before
As we celebrate Independence Day, we face challenges that leave us uncertain. For many persons with disabilities, the uncertainty may relate to lost jobs, missed personal relationships, and a disruption of routine.

But in Massachusetts and across the globe, some worry about whether they will have enough food before and during this disruption. As we advocate for a positive transition to re-open services, we cannot forget about the inadequacies we faced before the pandemic.

Those who struggled then struggle even more today. Our advocacy should be for ALL who need our support. Continue reading Leo's Letter here.
Thank you to all the members of our community who made a gift during the 2019-2020 Fiscal Year. As we continue to face the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, your belief in The Arc’s mission and confidence in our work are helping to keep us going.

Our role as an advocacy organization is to ensure that proposed solutions and policy embrace our entire community and system of services. As a community, you all have ensured that we are able to get through this crisis together, no matter what challenges have come our way.

The fact you are thinking of people with I/DD and autism and their families at what is a worrying and difficult time for us all speaks volumes of your kindness and fellow feeling. Thank you for standing with us, and for allowing our work enhancing the lives of people with I/DD and autism to continue during this difficult time.
Featured
Over 25,000 letters have been sent to the state's leadership as part of the #DontCutUsOut campaign. Now, take the next step: contact your legislators today.
The Arc is pleased to be able to share the new visitation guidelines released by the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) on the evening of July 1. Read here.
COVID-19 Updates
On June 29, Leo was joined by The Arc US' Senior Director of Public Policy Nicole Jorwic for a discussion of ongoing efforts to protect Medicaid, as well as the federal COVID-19 4th Stimulus Package.
In his latest COVID-19 weekly update, Leo discusses the #DontCutUsOut campaign, new information from DESE, the latest on the federal 4th Stimulus Package and more. Continue reading here.
Sponsor Spotlight

The work of The Arc of Massachusetts is made possible by generous donations from people like you, friend. None of our advocacy, education, and outreach would be possible without your continued support. Please consider giving today.