On Wednesday, April 17, Westchester Independent Living Center joined elected officials, community advocates, and partner organizations in speaking out against proposed federal changes that could significantly impact Medicaid funding and access across New York.
The event, held at Helen Hayes Hospital in West Havershaw, featured remarks from U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, who warned that the proposed Medicaid cuts—currently part of a House budget proposal—could jeopardize essential care for millions of New Yorkers, particularly seniors and individuals with disabilities.
Representing WILC at the press event was Joan O’Brien and Veronica Brockett, longtime advocates for disability rights and community-based services. WILC proudly stood with coalition partners to emphasize how Medicaid supports independent living, home- and community-based care, and access to critical services that allow people with disabilities to thrive outside of institutional settings.
More than 7 million New Yorkers currently rely on Medicaid. For many of WILC’s consumers, these services are not optional—they are foundational to health, safety, and self-directed living in the community.
WILC remains committed to advocating for policies that protect and strengthen access to care. We than
k Senator Schumer and all of the community voices who are helping to raise awareness of the importance of Medicaid and the role it plays in ensuring equity and dignity for all.
