For those huge seldom-used signboards, maybe they should read: Beware! Pot Holes Ahead!

Edna Cole, Cary

Agencies struggling

As a licensed clinical social worker working in a nonprofit mental health agency, I am gravely concerned about likely cuts to North Carolina’s mental health, substance abuse and developmental disability services. State representatives are considering drastic cuts to these services that could deprive thousands of citizens of much-needed medication, therapy and community support.

Agencies serving the uninsured are already struggling to survive on limited state funding. Any further cuts would force these agencies to significantly reduce services. This is already happening as many agencies are no longer accepting patients without insurance or even those with Medicaid and-or Medicare.

North Carolina has already been witnessing the effects of decreasing support of these services. The horrifying mistreatment at state hospitals, misuse of funding and difficulties accessing needed care are recent examples. Additional cuts will only exacerbate these problems.

Alex Whitaker, Hickory