JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – Years of neglect, abuse and exploitation against one of Mississippi’s most vulnerable populations has people pushing for change.

Disability Rights Mississippi (DRMS) and community members gathered on the South steps of the Mississippi State Capitol on Thursday. DRMS provides services for those who are disabled.

Over the past decade, an investigation into unlicensed personal care homes found that these homes lacked the necessary state licensing or certification. DRMS released a report detailing the issues of homes without power, exposed wiring, inaccessible bathrooms and more.

They’re asking lawmakers to close loopholes and remedy the regulations.

“Our DRMS investigations have found that residents of unlicensed homes wearing dirty, ill-fitting clothing have been forced to ask neighbors for money. We’ve also had reports of residents being sent outside to fend for themselves because the door of their home is padlocked. The conditions outside of the home are often deplorable, and the inside is only worse. Inoperable plumbing, improper cooling and heating windows,” said Raven Lesure, an advocate with DRMS.

The Mississippi Legislature allows certain personal care homes to operate without requiring a license. Advocates said through stronger state regulations and enforcement, these issues can be resolved.