Effingham, IL-(Effingham Radio)- The 377 Board met on Wednesday and discussed the fiscal year totals, which showed a large deficit of funding compared to the cost of the services they provide.
According to the FY2025 Report for the 377 Board, total funding received was just over $194k, and the cost to provide services for FY2025 was just under $296k. That’s a windfall of about $100k. The Board discussed the problem, stating that CSS (Community Support Systems) had to ‘eat’ the losses. The Board said they will look at ways to help reduce costs, but with prices steadily increasing, it will be hard to find relief. Board members also reminded that the majority of the funding is from tax money, so local taxpayers can feel good that their tax dollars are going to help a person in this program directly.
The Board approved the minutes from the last meeting, and Chairman Michael Tate said the total amount of people helped through the 377/CSS Program was 30 people, up from 21 a year ago. Michael also mentioned that Brumleve Industries has joined the list of businesses utilizing the program.
The Board also shared the story of Berenger, (pictured above), who recently graduated from Effingham High School. He participated in CSS’s vocational program during his senior year for a few hours each day, marking his first experience in a work environment. After graduating in May, Berenger transitioned to CSS’s full-time program, supported by funding from the Effingham County 377 Board. In just a few months he flourished, displaying remarkable work ethic and acquiring valuable skills. With the guidance of a job coach, Berenger got a job at Niemerg’s Steakhouse and started on Thursday, July 24th.
His achievements are a testament to his dedication and the vital support provided by the funding through 377.
Sandra Rich, the County Board representative for the 377 Board, was absent from Wednesday’s meeting.
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