Melmark legislative outreach meets with Leach to discuss disability issues

BERWYN, April 29 – State Rep. Daylin Leach, D-Montgomery, was welcomed by Melmark President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Joanne Gillis-Donovan on his first visit to the Berwyn-based nonprofit provider of services for children and adults with developmental disabilities.

Gillis-Donovan said, "The diverse needs of Pennsylvanians with disabilities cannot be met without the understanding and support of our legislature. We always welcome members of the House and Senate who seek to learn more about people with special needs and service providers like us. We are pleased to have this opportunity to brief you on the key issues facing children and adults with disabilities, here at Melmark and throughout our state."

Gillis-Donovan, an advocate for people with disabilities, noted that she was particularly thankful for Leach’s support of H.B. 1150, an autism services coverage bill introduced by Speaker of the House Dennis O’Brien and of H.B. 2241, a cost-of-living adjustment bill introduced by Rep. Barbara McIlvaine Smith.

Discussions focused on current legislative issues impacting the health-care providers and the welfare of their clients. Following the meeting, the group visited classrooms and program areas.

Melmark is a nonprofit provider of residential, educational, vocational and therapeutic services for adults and children with acquired brain injuries, intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, and other neurological and genetic disorders.

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