May 2021: Community Action Month

WHEREAS, Community Action Agencies were created when the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 was signed into law; and,

 

WHEREAS, Community Action has put a human face on poverty for over 50 years by advocating for limited-income citizens without a voice, so that they may enter the middle class and reach for the American dream, and provide opportunities; and,

 

WHEREAS, Community Action builds and promotes economic stability as an essential aspect of enabling and enhancing stronger communities, which in turn promotes self-sufficiency, ensuring that all Americans are able to live with dignity; and,

 

WHEREAS, Community Action has enhanced the lives of millions of people across America by providing essential life-changing services such as affordable housing, economic development, health care, energy assistance, and natural disaster relief and recovery; and,

 

WHEREAS, Community Action serves 99% of America's counties in rural, suburban, and urban communities, and because it is right, because it is wise, and because in our hearts and minds we believe it is possible, we will conquer poverty in our lifetime; and,

 

WHEREAS, Community Action will continue to implement innovative and cost-effective programs to improve the lives and living conditions of the impoverished, provide support and opportunities for all citizens in need of assistance, and continue to be a major voice of reason in establishing welfare system reforms; and,

 

WHEREAS, we join with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services in our respect for the efforts of Community Action Agencies and recognize that they have made significant contributions to individuals and families in Michigan;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim May 2021 as Community Action Month in Michigan.