Local Community Action Agencies celebrate decades of service alleviating poverty and strengthening communities
OLYMPIA, WA – Washington state is celebrating Community Action Month, dedicated to recognizing the success of the national Community Action Network that fights poverty across the United States. Commerce manages the Community Services Block Grant program in Washington state, distributing funds to 30 community action agencies.
“Community Action Month is a wonderful time to honor and celebrate the impact Community Action has in the lives of families and communities across the country,” stated Merritt Mount, Executive Director of the Washington State Community Action Partnership. “Agencies are successful every day in helping families achieve economic security. Given that the needs of each family and community are unique, Community Action is able to use a range of resources and programs to meet local needs in creative and impactful ways.”
“This past year, community action agencies provided 794,780 people in Washington with services that help them move toward self-sufficiency,” Commerce Director Brian Bonlender said. “As a result, over 82,000 individuals successfully reduced or eliminated barriers to employment, acquired a job, increased their income or achieved “living wage” employment and benefits. Commerce is proud to support this work which changes lives and strengthens communities.”
The national Community Action Network, originally created in 1964 by President Lyndon B. Johnson’s
Economic Opportunity Act, was and continues to be a pivotal piece of legislation in the War on Poverty.
Read Governor Jay Inslee’s proclamation, declaring May as Community Action Month in Washington. Learn more about the Washington State Community Action Partnership, and find your local Community Action Agency to access services or volunteer opportunities.
Contacts:
Penny Thomas, Commerce Communications, 206-256-6106
Merritt Mount, Washington State Community Action Partnership, 360-888-8033