Thanks to the dedication and focus of our growing grassroots community, the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation advanced important advocacy priorities for people impacted by paralysis. In 2023, our online advocates for change (11,000+) and 77 Reeve Regional Champions sent over 4,000 emails educating elected officials regarding key disability policies. We need to keep this momentum up for 2024.
In November, the Paralysis Resource Center (PRC) faced a significant funding threat as the House majority proposed a nearly 50% cut alongside reductions to various domestic programs. A small victory was achieved before Thanksgiving when the House did not bring the bill for a vote, instead extending funding for programs in the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) until February 2nd.
The Reeve Foundation mobilized its grassroots network to resist the proposed cut, emphasizing the potential impact on the PRC and the community. Although recent advocacy efforts seem effective, the threat of a cut in 2024 persists until final fiscal year amounts are determined.
House and Senate leaders announced a spending deal that may prevent drastic cuts, but ongoing advocacy is crucial. If a deal is not reached by February 2, a year-long continuing resolution (CR) could lead to program downsizing, including potential across-the-board reductions. The Reeve Foundation expresses gratitude to over 1,000 individuals who acted on our recent Action Alert, urging House Members and Senators to oppose cuts and support full funding for the PRC in FY 2024.