On Aug. 20, 1964 President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Economic Opportunity Act, which created a variety of programs, including Community Action agencies, as part of his War on Poverty.
“He knew then as we know now that the war against poverty must be won in the field, in every private home [and] in every public office, from the courthouse to the White House,” said Susan Hawthorne, executive director of Central Pennsylvania Community Action.
CPCA was established in 1967 to wage the war on poverty in Clearfield County
- by promoting self-sufficiency for those of limited income;
- ensuring that all residents are able to live in dignity;
- by implementing innovative and cost-effective programs to improve the lives and living conditions of the impoverished;
- by providing support and instruction for everyone in need of assistance; and
- by being a major voice of reason in establishing welfare system reforms.
“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,” said Hawthorne.
“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.
“2017 is CPCA’s 50th anniversary. The agency has been fighting poverty in Centre and Clearfield counties for 50 years, and we are not stopping. The need is great and changing, and CPCA is ready to strengthen our communities by helping those in need achieve independence from assistance.”
CPCA statistics underscores a positive impact on local neighborhoods.
It helps individuals improve their lives each year by providing them essential services and life-changing opportunities through Individual Development Accounts, financial education and job training as well as making available affordable housing, economic development, natural disaster relief and recovery, health care, energy assistance and more.
Hawthorne said despite experiencing budget cuts, shrinking resources and increased demands for services during these challenging economic times, CPCA has been remarkably successful assisting the low-income veterans, senior citizens, families, children, students and everyone of Clearfield County to achieve and maintain economic security.
Hawthorne said, “Our staff is committed to their task of replacing disadvantages with opportunities because it is right, because it is wise and because, in our hearts and minds we believe it is possible to conquer poverty in our lifetime.”