Deborah Riddick
Yesterday, Governor Rick Snyder presented his budget recommendations through fiscal year 2013, with an overarching theme of a “simple, fair, and efficient” budget. He spoke of a need for a shared sacrifice but also made a commitment to the preservation of Michigan’s safety-net. To paraphrase, he pledged to help those in need until such time as they can do for themselves. Consistent with that commitment, he proposed continued funding Michigan’s Child and Adolescent Health Centers (CAHCs) at their current level, ensuring that thousands of at-risk youth remain healthy and active learners…And for this we are thankful!
We are thankful that Governor Snyder clearly understands that these centers provide a simple, fair and efficient solution to improve the physical readiness of students across the state. The notion that health and productivity are inextricably linked and that schools are the appropriate location to instill health literacy is a simple concept to understand. The belief that every child deserves support that places him on equal footing with his peers greatly increases his chances for academic success and provides for fair and equal opportunity. And what more efficient use of resources can be found than to invest in the mental, physical, and social well-being of Michigan’s youth; an investment in this, our most precious of resources, secures Michigan’s future for generations to come!
On behalf of the thousands of future leaders, innovators, and their families, Thank You Governor Snyder! Because of your commitment, our nation’s promise to establish justice, promote the general welfare and to secure the blessings of our liberty for generations to come has hope of realization. It’s quite an impressive start!
-Deborah Riddick
