As reported by Kathryn Carley, Public News Service:
Community action agencies in Massachusetts are asking state lawmakers to boost antipoverty programs as federal aid remains in limbo.
Gov. Maura Healy chose not to fund the agencies’ line item in her proposed budget, putting critical services for people coping with food and housing insecurity at risk.
Pam Kuechler, president of the Massachusetts Association for Community Action, said a loss of funding would affect food pantries families rely on statewide.
“Things have not gotten better for folks and so we’ll have to reduce the number of days,” Kuechler projected. “We’ll probably have to reduce the amount of food that we’re able to distribute.”
Kuechler said her agency’s food pantry in New Bedford helped nearly 14,000 people last year alone. The agencies are requesting $7.5 million for the more than 600,000 people in Massachusetts they serve.
Community action agencies said programs offering fuel assistance, workforce development and free tax preparation to secure tax credits are more vital than ever. Data show roughly 70,000 children in Massachusetts are living in what’s considered “deep poverty,” or 50% below the poverty level.
Sen. Sal DiDomenico, D-Everett, said with federal aid now uncertain, it is important the agencies get the funding they need.
“This is not just money. People can feel it,” DiDomenico emphasized. “This is just something that we have to get done and we have to make sure that we protect.”
DiDomenico noted the Legislature’s Special Commission on Poverty will release an omnibus bill this session with recommendations on how to address the state’s historic wealth gap and better support programs proved to be effective in reducing poverty. He added it includes direct cash assistance, which helps families survive.