By Adina Genn

April 3rd, 2025

Read on LIBN

Federal policymakers are considering an $880 billion cut in government spending through 2034. One program that appears to be in the crosshairs is Medicaid, which provides healthcare coverage to low-income people.

To address concerns about how those cuts would affect Long Island, Nonprofit Resource Hub (NRH) is hosting a forum, “The Potential Impact of Medicaid Cuts.” The event is slated for Monday, April 7, from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at EPIC (Extraordinary People in Care) Long Island in East Meadow.

The event will bring together nonprofit executives, healthcare leaders, policymakers and advocates.

“The numbers are staggering and the consequences for our communities would be devastating,” Alison La Ferlita, NRH executive director, said in a news release about the event. “This is why every nonprofit leader and healthcare advocate should be in the room.”

The proposed cuts could lead to a 16 percent reduction in federal Medicaid funding across the country, according to a Kaiser Family Foundation report released last month. Those cuts could lead states to raise taxes, reduce other essential programs such as education, or cut Medicaid coverage, according to the study.

The possibilities are concerning to those who help the vulnerable gain access to healthcare and other services.

“Medicaid is a lifeline for millions of Americans, providing essential health care services to low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities,” Vanessa Baird-Streeter, President & CEO of the Health & Welfare Council of Long Island, said in the news release.

“As a nonprofit sector we need to do all we can to advocate for sustaining Medicaid funding,” she added. “Drastic cuts would not only jeopardize the health and well-being of our community members but also place immense financial strain on state budgets and local economies.”

Lisa Burch, president and CEO of EPIC Family of Human Services, shared similar concerns.

“Long Island’s most vulnerable communities rely on a strong Medicaid safety net,” Burch said in the news release.

“If our recent experience with the Suffolk County Legislature taught us anything, it’s that when the Long Island nonprofit community stands together, we can make a real difference. You don’t have to be directly impacted by federal contract terminations or the looming Medicaid cuts to be part of the solution. We need a collective strategy now—not after decisions are made in Washington. This forum is our opportunity to be proactive,” she said.

Registration is required. Admission is $10 for NRH members, and $15 for non-members.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.