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Judy Clark’s brother, George Metroka, Jr., 75, is a patient at White Haven State Center.
Like many relatives and guardians, Clark is extremely concerned about plans announced by the state last week to close the facility within three years.
“These patients can’t get the same level of care anywhere else that they get at White Haven,” said Clark, a Plymouth resident. “The families are unable to adequately care for their loved ones. They can’t let it close — it’s a heaven-sent facility.”
On Monday, a meeting was held at the center for self advocates, family members, guardians, and substitute decision-makers of residents to discuss transition into the community issues, among other things.
Their overwhelming consensus? That the facility should not close. They also know they have a tough fight ahead.
Maureen Jorda’s sisters, Michelle and Georgine, are among those backing that fight.
“We want to keep them home in their own environment where they feel comfortable and are well-cared for,” Michelle said. “My sister is brain damaged and she has never walked or talked. There’s no way we can take care for her. We need to fight to keep this center open.”
At Monday’s meeting, Georgine said many of the family members attending walked out on the state’s presentation.
“They told us it was pointless to try to keep it open,” Georgine said. “They said the governor has made the decision and the centers will close. They told us the meeting was to only discuss post-closure options.”
Georgine said the families were allowed to “vent,” but it was clear tha the state officials only wanted to discuss options on placement once the center closes.
Last Wednesday, Pennsylvania Department of Human Services Secretary Teresa Miller announced the plan to close the White Haven State Center in Luzerne County and Polk State Center in Venango County.
That decision immediately came under fire from state Rep. Gerald Mullery, and families of patients. Both centers are intermediate care facilities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Board president learned by phone
Gregory Smith, president of the White Haven Center Board of Trustees, said he learned of the state’s decision via a phone call from Mullery’s office.
“I’ve predicted six months ago that this would happen,” Smith said. “And you see that these decisions are never made during an election year.”
Smith said the state needs to find the money to keep the centers open.
“This is very emotional and upsetting to the families and everybody else,” Smith said. “I know these individuals and they will be facing very tough times ahead.”
Tom Kashatus of Glen Lyon said his daughter, Maria, 50, has resided at the White Haven Center since she was 12 years old. Kashatus said his daughter can’t talk or walk or feed herself.
“We’re not happy,” Kashatus, 79, said last week when the announcement came down. “We now have to prepare ourselves for the road ahead.”
Kashatus said his daughter was in a group home when she was young before being placed at the White Haven Center. He said Maria fell, got hurt and the family couldn’t get any answers.
Kashatus said his daughter has always received excellent care at White Haven.
“We’re afraid for their longevity and their quality of life,” Kashatus said. “We don’t want to see any decline.”
Mullery hopeful
Mullery said he remains hopeful the state will reconsider its decision to close the center. He said he’s begun planning for the formal Sept. 12 hearing, set for at 1 p.m. at the Hazleton One Community Center, 225 E. Fourth St, Hazleton.
“We cant lose sight that the most important factor is the quality of care for the residents of the White Haven Center,” Mullery said. “The stress associated with any move will certainly be detrimental to their health and well-being.”
Mullery said there remains no doubt in his mind that the best option for the residents is to remain at the White Haven Center.
State Sens. John Yudichak and Lisa Baker, along with Rep. Tarah Toohil have voiced loud opposition to the closing and have vowed their support for the families, patients and employees.
