On the recordJuly 20, 2021
For the past 40 years, community service block grants have been vital to providing communities the resources needed to address poverty and expand opportunities for children and families. CSBG is a targeted program with strong oversight and a solid track record of success. And because no two communities are the same, CSBG gives organizations the flexibility to create new and locally tailored solutions. CSBG is also bipartisan. This year, I was honored to join with more than 100 House Members from both sides of the aisle to advocate for an increase in funding to the program. More resources will allow great organizations in my community, like the Mohawk Valley Community Action Agency, to improve and increase their services. For over 50 years, MVCAA has served the residents of Oneida, Herkimer, and Madison Counties providing important services, and supporting education, employment, childcare, and family needs. In 2018 alone, they assisted 9,210 individuals, including 3,649 children. I am so grateful that the Committee on Appropriations met our fiscal year 2021 requests of $800 million for CSBG, which will ensure that even more families and children have access to the tools they need to realize their potential. I thank my good friend, ranking member of the Committee on Appropriations, Tom Cole, as well as Chairwoman Rosa DeLauro for their leadership and commitment to this program. ____________________
