Governor Gregoire is scheduled to release her 2010-2011 budget on December 8, and United Way of King County is engaged in discussions to protect  UWKC priorities, from homelessness to early learning.

This budget, the second year of a biennial budget approved in early 2009, will reflect adjustments that need to be made in order to balance state spending with projected revenue.

With the State currently facing a $1.8 billion deficit in the coming fiscal year beginning July 2010, it will be a “cuts only” budget unless new revenue sources are identified.  The programs most at risk are those that are state-only funded, such as General Assistance Unemployable (GAU), Basic Health and Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP).  Those programs that were most recently funded, including home visiting for young children and their families, may also see cutbacks.

These cuts would disproportionately and severely affect some of our most vulnerable populations–including those experiencing homelessness and at-risk, low income families  and children.  United Way will be advocating to maintain GAU and the Housing Trust Fund as well as protect state investments in children.