Baltimore, MD - August 7, 2026: It was an exciting experience for me to travel to Annapolis this past Monday (August 3) and take part in a rally outside the Maryland State House. Over the past few months, the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) of Maryland has announced major funding cuts and policy changes that will severely impact our special needs community. This rally, targeting the Maryland General Assembly during their special legislative session, was part of a larger attempt to let our lawmakers know just how much these cuts and procedure changes will adversely affect those who rely on the DDA funding. Menucha has been receiving significant funding from the DDA in the past, and that funding is now in jeopardy.
Mrs. Rochel Schnur has been strongly and tirelessly advocating for our special needs community, working together with wonderful organizations such as CCSDM (Concerned Citizens of Self Directions Maryland). This rally was organized by the CCSDM, and Mrs. Schnur swung into action to ensure that the Jewish community would be represented in the appeal to our legislators.
That is how I found myself standing right outside the Maryland State House, together with two of Menucha's program participants and a dedicated staff member, joining over 100 people in making our voice be heard. It was an honor for me to be there, representing Menucha, and as a quite visibly Jewish person, having a part in representing the Jewish community at large.
A few legislators spoke at the rally, calling for open dialogue with the DDA and for the government to address the important concerns raised. One of the speakers, Senate Minority Whip Justin Ready (GOP), remarked at the special legislative session "That is what we should be addressing..." referring to the rally right outside the State House (Maryland Matters).
For me, the rally was emotional. As I said in the beginning of my speech "I have been moved to tears... by the strength, the courage, the fear, the pain, and.. the unity that has been displayed here today."
In terms of unity, it was also extremely heartwarming to see how the different Jewish organizations collaborate together! It was encouraging to look across the yard and see Rabbi Ariel Sadwin from the Agudah, speaking with the legislators, using his experience and relationships to further this cause. Mr. Barry Nabozny, who has been instrumental with bringing Yachad's JUF program to Baltimore, gave an extremely powerful, stirring speech, speaking "As a father... of a son with disabilities...". His ringing words resonated across the square, and resonated deeply with all those present. Mrs. Schnur, who helped facilitate the rally, was standing nearby, interacting with the leaders of CCSDM. Mrs. Meira Burkom (Agudah - Yahalom) has been in close contact with Menucha, advocating and providing valuable assistance throughout this process.
To the Baltimore community this togetherness may seem natural, but as a newcomer to the scene, it is beautiful to see and experience.
Thank you to all those who have been supporting the special needs community, and especially Menucha, through this hurdle. As we continue to put in our best efforts, I daven to Hashem to provide the funding that we need to be able to continue giving Menucha to our wonderful families.