Funding Early Intervention Is a Big Win for RI - Margaret Holland McDuff

Funding Early Intervention Is a Big Win for RI - Margaret Holland McDuff

Governor Daniel J. McKee’s proposed state budget, fully funding Early Intervention, is a big win for Rhode Island infants and toddlers.

 

Early Intervention is a proven program where highly skilled pediatric nurses, therapists, and case managers help at-risk children overcome developmental delays such as walking, talking, and eating – and they provide this care in a child’s home or community.

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These interventions are time-sensitive – they must happen during the critical brain development before a child turns three.  Kids who receive early intervention during this timeframe have a good chance of catching up on developmental milestones and performing well in school and life. Children who can’t get these services, however, may lag behind.

 

Too many RI children have not been able to access this care when they need it.  But this is about to change.  The Governor’s investment in the Early Intervention workforce will halt the tide of skilled workers leaving this state and profession for better-paying jobs elsewhere.  This measure keeps this talent here, in Rhode Island, for our kids and our communities.

 

I fully support this budget measure, and I encourage everyone who is part of Team RI to join me. Together, we can help our kids to reach their true potential. 

 

Margaret Holland McDuff has served as Family Service of RI CEO since 2001, which is a statewide behavioral health and early intervention agency.  McDuff has worked in social services in the state since the 1980s.  She serves on the Governor’s Council on Behavioral Health, the board of directors of Blue Cross Blue Shield of RI, and the board of directors of the Rhode Island Coalition for Children and Families.