Owed $25M, Catholic Charities makes plea to end state budget crisis

OAK PARK, Ill. (WLS) -- Chicago's Catholic Charities says the state now owes it $25 million - money it desperately needs to keep the state's largest social services agency operating.

The Chicago Archdiocese is calling on its parishioners to help put pressure on state lawmakers to solve the budget impasse.

At Accolade Adult Day Services in Oak Park there will be smiles, celebrations and even a little soul.

"They be dancing but I just sit and look at 'em," client Earlene Sneed said. "I just like being here."

"I live alone, and so this is very important to be around people," said Sharon Napoleon, another client.

Amid that light atmosphere, there is also a serious mission. Staffers care for range of elderly clients with physical, mental, neurological challenges during the day. They can't be left alone.

Currently, there are 73 clients at the Oak Park center. That number has doubled since August.

Accolade is run by Catholic Charities, which is appealing to Chicago area Catholics to help end the state budget crisis.

"This isn't about ideals and this isn't about opinions anymore. This is really impacting lives and whether people live or die," said Angela Reese, Accolade Adult Day Services.

A special announcement Friday afternoon urges parishioners: "Please lend your voice to advocate for the State of Illinois to end its budget stalemate..."

Catholic Charities has made administrative cuts, and doesn't want to cut services.

"We need to encourage the leadership of both parties in Springfield - in the House and the Senate - to come together," said Monsignor Michael Boland, Catholic Charities.

Monsignor was concerned about making a public appeal as to not worry those who receives help. But this time, he says he has no choice in order to continuing provide services to 1.3 million clients in Cook and Lake Counties.