Projo 7 to 7 News Blog

EXETER, R.I. -- Advocates for the developmentally disabled on Monday entered their second day of a 72-hour silent vigil to honor "the thousands of lives who passed through the doors of the Joseph H. Ladd Center."

Participants are taking four-hour shifts at the shaded site of a memorial stone that marks where the Ladd farmhouse once stood. The marker was placed there after the state abandoned the Ladd Center 15 years ago.

Federal authorities forced the state to close the center after deplorable conditions came to light. Ladd residents were then released to group homes and other community settings.

"We are here to commemorate 15 years of people living in the community," said Kathleen A. Ellis, executive director of Avatar, a Warwick support-services agency.

The vigil will move to the State House on Wednesday for a 1 p.m. rally "in support of individuals with disabilities and the many programs that help them live productive and dignified lives."

 Tags  Exeter RI Ladd Center vigil

Comments

Maureen G said:

We need more news coverage for the cause to keep people with disabilities out in the forefront of the consciousness of the state legislators and the Governor that we do give back to the community. Please don't let these legislators sweep people with disabilities under the doormat.

Link | June 1, 2009 9:06 PM
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Melanie said:

Enough with the cuts enough is enough we do not need individuals with disabilities going backwards in life, life is about moving forward and acheiving your goals. That is what individuals do today with the help of all the programs avaiable if any more cuts are made the people will be moving in the wrong direction. why shouldnt people with disabilities be able to live life just like you and I? Here's and Idea take away gov credit cards, drivers, body guards and stop giving thousands of dollars to people who come here from other countries. Problem solved then we will have plenty of money to go around!!

Link | June 1, 2009 9:14 PM
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