Hundreds rallied to “put people first”

Nearly 200 PEF leaders and members rallied in front of the Office of Mental Health and Office of People with Developmental Disabilities last Thursday in Albany to protest the closures and shifting of services at both these state offices.

PEF’s statewide officers said the services provided by PEF members are vital and necessary for those suffering from mental illness and developmental disabilities. PEF President Ken Brynien said the union will do everything in its power to put people first, and not last, and to halt the state’s attempt towards privatization.

Rally planned at the state Office of Mental Health and OPWDD to save vital services

Dozens of PEF members will rally Thursday, March 1 at 44 Holland Ave, in Albany, the location of the state Office of Mental Health and the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities. PEF Vice President Pat Baker said the rally is just another step taken by the union to reinforce the need to maintain services for the state’s most vulnerable citizens. The OMH and OPWDD are seeing facility and ward closures that are eliminating treatment and care options for the most vulnerable. Contact the PEF Mobilization Department for transportation details by calling 1-800-342-4306 ext. 227.