Public Meeting To Address The Future Of Norristown State Hospital

NORRISTOWN, PA — State government officials will host a meeting addressing the future of Norristown State Hospital next week.

The Department of Human Services will provide background information on the hospital and its current status before allowing the public to comment and ask questions. DHS Acting Secretary Teresa Miller will moderate the discussion.

The meeting will be hosted on Wednesday, Nov 29 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Norristown Municipal Hall, located at 235 E. Airy Street.

The hospital's civil unit began the process of shutting down this January. The move was aimed at "helping more people live in the community," according to Secretary Ted Dallas. While there had been no direct rumors about the closure leading up to the announcement earlier this year, the Wolf administration has repeatedly state a focus on helping individuals with disabilities reduce reliance on institutional care.

Community members, legislators, and activists are invited to the meeting Wednesday.

Those wishing to participate should register by emailing Maggi Mumma at mamumma@pa.gov and 717-425-7606.

Image via Pennsylvania Department of Human Services