Four people are losing their jobs because of AmeriCorps cuts. The Palouse-Clearwater Environmental Institute made the announcement today.
The Institute found out that the federal government is cutting some AmeriCorps contracts. The contracts were expected to end in August, but will likely end with April instead. Institute Executive Director Tom Lamar says it’s going to have a big, noticeable impact. “We have plants in our nursery that will potentially die, we have kids taught by AmeriCorps members that won’t be taught.”
Lamar says it doesn’t end there, the AmeriCorps cuts will affect organizations all over Idaho and in all 50 states. “The federal government is violating the law.” He says it’s illegal, so it could very well be challenged in court, which takes time, but he doesn’t know if that will have any effect on the cuts before they happen.
They’re hoping a grass-roots effort will keep things going through Idaho Gives. The statewide four-day giving event started today. You can donate through the Idaho Gives website, or go to the Institute website directly at pcei.org/donate.
They say the need for more volunteers is now greater than ever. You can e-mail info@pcei.org to be added to their list.
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