Several local social service agencies that depend on state funding say they will soon run out of money to pay for the services they provide to people with special needs. At a protest in downtown Bloomington, they called on Governor Bruce Rauner and the state legislature to reach a budget agreement. Some of the people who would be affected if funding runs out also attended the demonstration. Among them was Patricia Dietz, who works at the Encore thrift store, which employs people with developmental disabilities.
Joining in the protest were representatives of the YWCA, MarcFirst, Mid-Central Community Action and the Life Center for Independent Living.These organizations offer housing services and work opportunities for people with disabilities, elder care, pediatric care and counseling for rape and sexual abuse victims