BUTLER TWP — In many cases mentally disabled people who are unable to live on their own end up staying with their parents or legal guardians for most of their lives.

But as their parents get older and their ability to provide care diminishes — or as the person’s needs change — they often need to be admitted into special housing or different programs.

State and federal aid for such programs has been hard to come by in recent years, but officials are hopeful that next year’s state budget will provide some relief.

Both the budget proposed by Gov. Tom Wolf and the bill passed through the House and Senate this week include an increase of $26.2 million for aid to individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism.

This new money would reduce a state services waiting list by 1,000 individuals, according to a news release from the governor.

As of this week, Butler County had 146 people on its waiting list for state waivers for people with intellectual disabilities. The waiting list includes people who need housing, but also others who do not need housing or who do not have immediate needs, said Joyce Ainsworth, director of Butler County human services.

The list is prioritized by need and there are 30 people in Butler County who are currently classified as “emergency.” While these people wait for approval for state or federal funds, the county steps in using block grant money to provide temporary assistance.

“It is getting more and more difficult for us to hold things together until we can get folks help,” Ainsworth said.

A full report will appear in the Butler Eagle.