PORTERVILLE DEVELOPMENTAL CENTER PARENTS’ GROUP, INC.
c/o Barbara Mendes, President
6193 N. West
Fresno, CA 93711

March 31, 2010

The Porterville Developmental Center Parents’ Group, Inc. is an association of parents, family members and friends of persons with developmental disabilities residing at the Porterville Developmental Center. Our association is concerned that the proposed closure of the Lanterman Developmental Center in Pomona, CA is not in the best interests of Lanterman’s residents. It also threatens Californians with developmental disabilities throughout the state.

Developmental centers are staffed with professional people who have the necessary level of expertise which individuals with severe or profound developmental disabilities need for their physical, emotional, social and economic health. Disposing of this valuable and vital Center is short-sighted and dangerous. In the face of current budget shortfalls, and communities ill- prepared to handle seriously impaired individuals, the state is gambling with the lives of its most vulnerable citizens. Therefore, the Porterville Developmental Center Parents’ Group, Inc. is opposed to the closure of the Lanterman Developmental Center.

Please reconsider what appears to be an impromptu decision made in the face of budgetary pressures. Our developmentally disabled kin deserve better.

Sincerely,

s/Barbara Mendes, President