The report of new emergency funding received by Vashon Youth & Family Services (VYFS) is wonderful news; however it cannot possibly reverse the agency’s funding problems (“Amid staff cutbacks, VYFS receives ’emergency funding’ from county,” Aug. 17).

The loss of program funds — for chemical dependency, for VIVA, for Playspace — is cited as the cause, but why hasn’t the agency been able to retain funding? Blaming troublesome county reimbursement ‘systems’ dodges the issue.

If leaders on this island can launch new businesses, build an arts center, rescue a health clinic, add private dollars to public school funding, grow a farmer’s market and develop community radio, why is a bedrock social service agency in a continuing financial death spiral?

We are at risk of losing vital social services and prevention programs — some of the most cost-effective tools we have for ensuring community vitality and public safety. I have supported the agency financially for years and have benefitted from its services. Can the VYFS leadership explain not just what funding has been lost, but why?

When you’re in a hole, first, stop digging.

— Steve Davis