As the 2024 elections come to a close, many are reflecting on the outcomes, processing the implications, and considering what comes next for our communities. While political shifts and new leadership at local, state, and federal levels may create uncertainty, one thing remains clear: Community Action Agencies (CAAs) continue to be a cornerstone of support for individuals and families nationwide, and their role will remain vital in the years ahead.
Community Action Agencies are local, non-profit organizations that work to combat poverty and help individuals and families achieve self-sufficiency. With nearly 1,000 agencies across the United States, CAAs provide essential services like job training, housing assistance, nutrition programs, and early childhood education through Head Start and Early Head Start programs. These services are especially needed in the current climate, where more than 36 million - or 11 percent - of Americans are living at or below the federal poverty line.
In 2020, Community Action helped more than 15 million people access essential services, underlining the broad impact of these organizations. The comprehensive support CAAs offer enables individuals to build long-term stability.
Research shows that addressing multiple aspects of poverty at once is far more effective than isolated interventions. This study published by the National Head Start Association found that
Head Start children are more likely to graduate from high school and secure stable employment as adults. These outcomes show that investing in early childhood education and other integrated services can provide a clear path out of poverty and reduce future government reliance.
Community Action Agencies have enjoyed bipartisan support since their creation in the 1960s, a testament to their importance in tackling poverty. In recent years, funding for programs like the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) has remained mostly consistent, with Congress allocating more than $700 million in 2022 to support CAAs. This sustained investment demonstrates widespread recognition of the value these agencies bring to communities, regardless of political affiliation.
As we mark 60 years of Community Action Agencies, it is clear that the need for such services has never been greater. CAAs like Step Forward continue to adapt, addressing issues such as affordable housing, access to early education, parenting programs, counseling, and more. Step Forward’s programs, including the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), provide essential services to families facing hardship. Additionally, a renewed commitment to mental health services and workforce development reflects Community Action Agencies’ dedication to meeting the growing and changing needs of the communities they serve.
Moving forward, continued support for CAAs through funding, community collaboration, and advocacy is essential to ensure these agencies can meet the growing demand for services. Their ability to help individual(s) achieve self-sufficiency and create lasting change is fundamental to building stronger, more resilient communities.
Despite any uncertainties that follow this election, Community Action Agencies will remain a vital force in addressing the needs of families across the United States. With a proven track record in reducing poverty and improving long-term outcomes, we will continue to provide support to those who need it most. As we look to the future, investing in organizations like ours will be key to ensuring a more equitable and prosperous society.