Helping people help themselves and each other.
Transcription
Helping people help themselves and each other.
2010 ANNUAL REPORT NEW HAMPSHIRE COMMUNITY ACTION ASSOCIATION Improving the Quality of Life “Helping people help themselves and each other.” PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE The six Community Action Agencies were created as a result of America’s war on poverty in 1965. Our mission remains unchanged today; it is to provide economic opportunity to those struggling to make ends meet in today’s complicated modern society. While New Hampshire’s poverty rate remains low by comparison to many other states, it has risen during the “Great Recession”. Those who struggle with poverty in New Hampshire face severe challenges and many roadblocks. New Hampshire’s statewide Community Action network hopes that the information provided in this report captures a snapshot of our efforts to help families, seniors, and other individuals to better survive the day-to-day struggles of being poor and, more importantly, provide opportunities to break out of the cycles of poverty and live comfortable and self-supporting lives. New Hampshire’s six agencies operate a series of programs in common, among them: Head Start, Fuel Assistance, Energy Assistance, Weatherization, Nutrition, Employment and Training, Transportation, and Homeless programs. The core concept of Community Action, however, involves local programming, providing opportunities for disadvantaged families and individuals to succeed in their own communities. Because of this flexibility, built into the Community Action concept and funded through the Community Services Block Grant, each local Community Action Agency is able to design programs reflecting the needs of local families and opportunities found in each community. In certain areas, programs designed to help people who do not speak English are essential; in others, health care would be unavailable without the local Community Action Agency. Economic development is important in communities where there is a shortage of jobs or there is an even greater shortage of good paying jobs. Other communities need recreational facilities, programs involving drug treatment, the reduction of crime and, everywhere, affordable housing, transportation and job training are needs that require unique local efforts. The New Hampshire Community Action Agencies are non-profit corporations contracting with federal, state and local governments, private agencies, local businesses, and philanthropies to meet local needs. The following pages will report the outcomes of our efforts, the barriers still before New Hampshire’s disadvantaged population, and some of the stories of the families we assist. The task faced by Community Action in New Hampshire is difficult. We look to state and local government, other non-profits, and especially the private sector to form partnerships so that effective services and increased opportunities are available for all New Hampshire residents regardless of their economic status. We realize there is much to do and we ask you to join us in our efforts to open the doors to economic opportunity for all. Gale F. Hennessy President REPORT OF THE NEW HAMPSHIRE COMMUNITY ACTION ASSOCIATION 2010 TABLE OF CONTENTS Community Action in New Hampshire – Who Are We, What Do We Do? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 The History of Community Action . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Making Our Program Services Possible: The Community Services Block Grant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Community Action Agency Profiles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Community Action Program Belknap-Merrimack Counties, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-13 Rockingham Community Action . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-17 Southern New Hampshire Services, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-21 Southwestern Community Services, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22-25 Strafford County Community Action Committee, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-29 Tri-County Community Action . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-33 Summary of Community Action Budget Expenditures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Economic and Demographic Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Assessing the Impact. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Federal Poverty Income Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 New Hampshire Families in Poverty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Unemployment Rates by County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 New Hampshire Demographic Data Profile Highlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 New Hampshire Rate of Unemployment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Employment by Industry in New Hampshire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 New Hampshire Growth and Other Economic Factors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Funding from ARRA by State. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Initial Claims for Unemployment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Change in Population Over the Age of 65. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Population Over the Age of 65 by County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Is New Hampshire a Low Spending State. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Our High Growth Years are Behind Us. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Community Action Code of Ethics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Community Action Program Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Education. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Emergency Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-52 Employment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52-53 Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53-55 Income Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55-56 Linkages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56-57 Nutrition. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57-58 Self-Sufficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58-59 COMMUNITY ACTION IN NEW HAMPSHIRE WHO ARE WE? – WHAT DO WE DO? The six Community Action Agencies (CAAs) in New Hampshire are dedicated to the principle that poverty should not be a permanent condition of people’s lives. Created as a result of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964, our organizations empower low income people, with the help of their communities, to lift themselves and their families out of poverty. New Hampshire CAAs are private nonprofit corporations with boards of directors composed of representatives of the private sector, public officials, and low-income individuals. As private non-private corporations, CAA’s are governed by appropriate Federal and State laws. Our funding is a mix of Federal, State and private resources. We are geographically designed along county lines, either single or multi-county in service area, and together we serve every one of the 234 cities and towns in our state. With local direction and management, New Hampshire CAAs are able to respond quickly and effectively to the variety of needs of our disadvantaged population. We work closely with local, county, and state governments, as well as other social service agencies, and private industry, including banks, investors and local businesses. Together we strive to marshal as many resources as possible in our efforts to provide comprehensive services responsive to conditions. While we operate similar core programs such as Head Start and Fuel Assistance, each of us also has programs reflecting unique, local needs. Thus one Community Action Agency may specialize in housing, another in transportation, and still another in health and nutrition. The tax structure in the state presents unique challenges, and can be especially burdensome to those with the fewest resources. With that in mind, we are committed to collaborative efforts in attacking the problems faced by the poor. By partnering with other social service organizations, State Agencies, municipalities and the private sector, we strive to maximize the impact of each dollar in providing services. A strong social service network, including Community Action Agencies, provides New Hampshire communities with cost effective services, locally controlled and supervised. This is the essence of Community Action. The Promise of Community Action Community Action changes people’s lives, embodies the spirit of hope, improves community and makes America a better place to live. We care about the entire community and we are dedicated to helping people help themselves and each other. 6 HISTORY OF COMMUNITY ACTION IN NEW HAMPSHIRE As a result of a number of critical analyses in the late 50’s and early 60’s of the American economy and subculture of poverty, poverty came to be more of a national focus in the Kennedy administration. Initiatives such as Mobilization for Youth, which emphasized the role of neighborhood councils, school boards, local service providers, neighbors, etc. in addressing juvenile crime and the conditions which led to it, gave impetus to the approach which came to be called “community action.” President Johnson declared the “War on Poverty” in his 1964 State of the Union address, and the Economic Opportunity Act was passed in 1964, and brought into being in Title II “Urban and Rural Community Action Programs.” Sargent Shriver was the first Director of the Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO) which administered these programs. In New Hampshire, at Governor John King’s direction, seven Community Action Agencies were created to cover all New Hampshire communities. The city of Manchester Community Action Agency was eventually consolidated with the balance of Hillsborough County. A national network of Community Action Agencies (CAAs) used their local initiative funding to design and administer local programs at the local level. The structure and function of these CAAs continued to be refined through the 60’s and early 70’s, with the Quie and Green Amendments being key components of legislation which helped Community Action develop as it moved forward. Through the Nixon presidency the administration continually attempted to dismantle the OEO and eliminate Community Action. Donald Rumsfeld played a key role in preventing this from occurring. In 1974 the Community Services Act brought into being the Community Services Administration (CSA) as successor to the OEO. The energy crisis of the mid 70’s gave birth to the Weatherization program, and in fiscal year 1980 Community Action received its highest funding level, $2.15 billion. Congressional oversight increased and several changes were made which strengthened internal controls at the CSA. The “Reagan Revolution” led to attempts to eliminate the CSA while consolidating many social service programs into a block grant administered by the states. The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981 created the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG), but the essential components of Community Action were retained. The Office of Community Services (OCS) assumed the former duties of the CSA. CSBG is the key to the Community Action concept. Each Agency receives Federal funding to design and implement programs for the poor that meet local community needs. The use of these funds is not dictated in Washington or in Concord, but decisions by local Community Action boards determine the use of CSBG funds. This allows Community Action Agencies to be responsive to local needs and to design programs that fit unique circumstances. This has allowed substantial new initiatives by the New Hampshire Community Action network. While the funding processes for Community Action Agencies have changed over the years the concept of local control has remained at the heart of New Hampshire’s Community Action effort. Within this context, New Hampshire Community Action Agencies have broadened program efforts over the years. Marshalling resources has allowed Community Action Agencies to effectively operate programs in such diverse fields as housing, health, transportation, education, employment, training, family planning, drug and alcohol use treatment and homelessness. New Hampshire’s Community Action network stresses cooperation. The six Agencies are members of the New Hampshire Community Action Association as well as the New England Community Action Association and the national Community Action Partnership. Working together on many state-wide projects, New Hampshire Community Action Agencies are an effective delivery network. In addition to providing services for a variety of New Hampshire state agencies, the New Hampshire Community Action network has collaborated to impact on utility rates for the economically disadvantaged, sought grants to provide economic development in the smaller communities in the State, and continually worked to implement best practices. The changing nature of Federal and State funding patterns, the ever-increasing burden on local taxpayers, and the evolving nature of poverty in New Hampshire are challenges for the New Hampshire Community Action network as we continue our work in this new century. We are ready to face those challenges with the same commitment to improving people’s lives and alleviating poverty with which Community Action began more than 40 years ago. 7 MAkING OUR PROGRAM SERvICES POSSIBLE THE COMMUNITY SERvICES BLOCk GRANT The Community Services Block Grant (CSBG), created by the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981, is a federal, anti-poverty block grant. CSBG funds the operations of a state administered network of more than 1,000 local agencies nationwide, the vast majority of which are Community Action Agencies (CAAs). These agencies create, coordinate and deliver programs and services to low-income Americans in 96 percent of the nation’s counties. For FY 2010 $688,810,000 in CSBG funding was made available to 50 States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Territories, which in turn subcontracted with CAAs and locally-based community organizations. The state of New Hampshire received $3,730,000 in CSBG funding. To ensure maximum effectiveness of CAAs and other CSBG recipients, a measurement tool known as Results Oriented Management and Accountability (ROMA) was developed in 1994. ROMA’s purpose is to provide a framework for assessing and measuring the effectiveness of agencies using CSBG resources in helping people move toward selfsufficiency. The NHCAA members are committed to the principles of sound management, effective service delivery and the ROMA process. Six goals were outlined as broad measuring sticks in the areas of Family, Agency and Community. They are: Goal 1: Low-income people become more self-sufficient Goal 2: The conditions in which low-income people live are improved Goal 3: Low-income people own a stake in their community Goal 4: Partnerships among supporters and providers of service to low-income people are achieved. Goal 5: Agencies increase their capacity to achieve results Goal 6: Low-income people, especially vulnerable populations, achieve their potential by strengthening family and other supportive systems “The CSBG Program provides invaluable assistance to our neediest families and gives individuals the necessary tools to help them get back on their feet…We’ve seen great progress for many of America’s poorer families. But we need to do better. By continuing the services of the CSBG program we are expanding our social service networks and helping the poorest of the poor reach financial independence and self-sufficiency.” Congressman Phil English, (R-Pa.) May 2006 8 COMMUNITY ACTION AGENCY PROFILES 9 COMMUNITY ACTION PROGRAM BELKNAP-MERRIMACK COUNTIES, INC. COMMUNITY ACTION PROGRAM BELkNAP-MERRIMACk COUNTIES, INC. Main Office Location 2 Industrial Park Dr. Concord, NH 03301 Tel. (603) 225-3295 Fax (603) 228-1898 www.bm-cap.org Mailing Address PO Box 1016 Concord, NH 03302-1016 Outreach Offices Concord Tel. (603) 225-6880 Franklin Tel. (603) 934-3444 Laconia Tel. (603) 524-5512 Meredith Tel. (603) 279-4096 Suncook Tel. (603) 485-7824 Warner Tel. (603) 456-2207 Program Service Sites Allentown Alton Belmont Bradford Concord Epsom Franklin Laconia Meredith New London Ossipee Pembroke Pittsfield Plymouth Tilton Warner Board of Directors Sara A. Lewko Charles Russell, Esq. Dennis Martino Marilyn Ross Senior Staff Ralph Littlefield Brian F. Hoffman Kathy Lavigne Teresa Beauchesne Chris Bonner Elaine Roundy Michael Coleman Rick Cote Randy Emerson Lisa Hazeltine Rebecca Johnson Pam Jolivette Shannon Nolin Dana Nute David Poisson Julie Sackett Judy Scothorne Carol Stewart Jim Sudak Susan Wnuk President Vice President Secretary/Clerk Treasurer Wanda Bourgeois Heather Brown Theresa M. Cromwell Bobbie Jo Downs Kathy Goode Susan Koerber Karen Painter Executive Director Deputy Director Chief Accountant Personnel Coordinator Budget Analyst Executive Secretary Elderly Housing Director Homeless and Family Housing Director Emergency Food Assistance Program/ Summer Food Service Director Workforce Development Program / Senior Community Services Employment Program Director Family Services Director Elder Services/Rural Transportation/ Senior Companion Program Director Governor and Dr. Lynch providing Meals-on-Wheels. Electric Assistance Program Director Housing Rehabilitation and Energy Conservation Director The Fixit Program and NH Modular Ramp Program Director Head Start/Early Head Start/Child Care Director Community Services Director NH Mediation Director Concord Area Transit Director Community Health and Nutrition Services Director 10 COMMUNITY ACTION PROGRAM BELKNAP-MERRIMACK COUNTIES, INC. LETTER FROM THE ExECUTIvE DIRECTOR Over the last forty five years, Community Action Programs Belknap-Merrimack Counties Inc. primary purpose has been to provide a comprehensive and cost effective approach to the delivery of health and social services to the communities that we serve. Through community planning and the effective use of federal, state, local and private resources the agency has been able to provide a broad range of services designed to meet the needs of our citizens. These services are targeted to assist low income families to become or remain self-sufficient. We work with our senior citizens to assist them in their goal to remain independent and connected to their community. Our organization touches the lives of thousands of citizens in the State of New Hampshire every day. I hope as you read this publication you will gain a further understanding of our work, the services we provide and our value to the community. Ralph Littlefield Executive Director Concord Area Transit Rider Senior Companion Program 11 COMMUNITY ACTION PROGRAM BELKNAP-MERRIMACK COUNTIES, INC. AGENCY PROGRAMS A) EDUCATION Child Care Centers Early Head Start Head Start Home Visiting New Hampshire F) INCOME MANAGEMENT CORE Residential Conservation Program Electrical Assistance Program (EAP) Heating Repair/Replacement Project (HRRP) National Grid Weatherization Program Weatherization Assistance Program B) EMERGENCY SERVICES Continuum of Care Emergency Assistance Supportive Housing Program Emergency Food Pantries Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Homeless Housing and Access Revolving Loan Fund Homeless Outreach and Intervention Program Homeless Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program Homelessness Prevention/Intervention Neighbor Helping Neighbor NH Security Guarantee Deposit Program New Start Program Senior Energy Assistance Services (SEAS) Short/Long Term Disaster Recovery G) LINKAGES Area Outreach Centers (6) Central NH Transportation Brokerage Concord Area Transit NH Mediation Program Rural Transportation Services Senior Centers (9) Senior Companion Program ServiceLink Resource Center of Merrimack County Special Transit Services Winnipesaukee Transit System Lead Agency Region 3: Regional Transportation Coordinating Council H) NUTRITION Child Care Food Program Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) Congregate Meals Farmer's Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) Holiday Gift and Food Baskets Meals-on-Wheels Summer Food Service Program Temporary Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) Woman, Infants and Children Nutrition Program (WIC) C) EMPLOYMENT Community Work Experience Families @ Work Senior Community Service Employment Program WIA Adult Worker Program WIA Dislocated Worker Program Workplace Success D) HEALTH Family Planning Prenatal Program Sexually Transmitted Disease Clinics STD/HIV Counseling & Testing Clinics Teen Clinic I) SELF-SUFFICIENCY Community Development Block Grant E) HOUSING American Dream Home Program Elderly Housing - HUD 202 (6) - Tax Credits (1) Family Housing - Tax Credits (3) Family Housing - Affordable (2) Fixit Program HOME Rehabilitation Program Housing Futures Fund NH Modular Ramps Program - Special Needs Access Program NH Rental Guarantee Program Purchase/Rehabilitation Program Senior Companion Program 12 COMMUNITY ACTION PROGRAM BELKNAP-MERRIMACK COUNTIES, INC. SUMMARY OF PROGRAM ExPENDITURES BELkNAP-MERRIMACk COUNTIES, INC. COMMUNITY ACTION PROGRAM INFORMATION FOR FISCAL YEAR OCTOBER 1, 2008 TO SEPTEMBER 30, 2009 Program Expenditures by Category Persons* by Category Households* by Category A. Education $3,839,932 533 B. Emergency Services $9,492,847 35,369 C. Employment $1,989,064 1,393 D. Health $1,690,899 5,589 E. Housing $2,780,500 1,739 F. Income Management $1,265,157 6,377 F. Linkages $2,260,282 8,055 G. Nutrition $7,882,635 11,203 H. Self-Sufficiency $456,500 110 TOTAL: $31,657,816 Number of Full Time Employees: 215 Number of Part Time Employees: 295 Payroll: $8,142,000 Volunteer Hours: 134,790 Value of Volunteer Hours: $2,810,372 (based on figure of $20.85/hr as determined by the Bureau of Labor Statistics for earnings in certain occupations and adjusted by Independent Sector to include benefits) Value of In-Kind Donations: $1,264,099 2,060,811 lbs. of food 157,429 rides 414,029 meals * These figures may represent duplicated counts. Horseshoe Pond Place Halloween 13 ROCKINGHAM COMMUNITY ACTION ROCkINGHAM COMMUNITY ACTION Main Office Location 4 Cutts Street Portsmouth, NH 03801 (603) 431-2911 or 1-800-556-9300 www.rcaction.org Program Service Sites Epping Newmarket Portsmouth Raymond Salem Seabrook Board of Directors Chairman: Vice-Chair: Treasurer: Secretary: Neal Carnaby Chris Callahan Steve MacInnes Jennifer O’Neil Public Sector Heather Neville Nancy Pierce Robin Read Vacant Private Sector Chris Callahan Stephen MacInnes Tom Meissner Eliza Stewart-MacDougall Debra Weiss Ford Tara Whitney Low-Income Sector Neal Carnaby Zulay Eliason Bonnie Konopka Jennifer O'Neil Senior Staff Tom Nelson Ron Ross Karen Moyer Gerry Santilli Sharon Brody Andy Gray Patte Ardizzoni Teddy Golter Executive Administrator Fiscal Director WIC/CSFP/CCS/LS Director Head Start Director Energy and Community Services Director Weatherization Director Strategic Initiatives Director Executive Assistant Volunteers load food for distribution to local pantries. 14 ROCKINGHAM COMMUNITY ACTION LETTER FROM THE ExECUTIvE ADMINISTRATOR The Promise of Community Action: Community Action changes people’s lives, embodies the spirit of hope, improves communities and makes America a better place to live. We care about the entire community and are dedicated to helping individuals help themselves and each other. Rockingham Community Action (RCA) has been offering hope, help and change for families facing financial crisis for over 45 years. Through programs that promote the birth of healthy babies, help families avoid homelessness, provide quality pre-school education experiences for young children, keep families and seniors safe and warm and assist households in developing assets for a more secure financial future we succeed in building stronger and healthier communities for all. Our commitment, dedication and expertise in addressing poverty and its affect on families during the past 45 years continues to provide opportunities for RCA to realize the Promise of Community Action, remaining, “…dedicated to helping individuals help themselves and each other.” Along with other members of the New Hampshire Community Action Association, RCA is committed to helping create financially stable families and strong communities, meeting local needs through innovative programming, partnering and services in response to the issues which affect people’s lives on a daily basis. As members of Community Action we are proud of our history of achievements nationally and here in New Hampshire in providing the doorway through which families and individuals can find financial stability and self-sufficiency. The staff and leadership of RCA will continue to fulfill the agency’s mission, and we will continue to welcome the support of community partners and generous individuals in making Rockingham County a better place to live for all of our neighbors. Tom Nelson Executive Administrator Home ownership is a reality for this family thanks to RCA’s IDA program. 15 ROCKINGHAM COMMUNITY ACTION AGENCY PROGRAMS A) EDUCATION Adult Basic Education Gift of Reading Head Start Reading is Fundamental Tales to Go H) NUTRITION Breastfeeding Connection Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) Emergency Food Assistance Program Women Infants & Children Nutrition Program (WIC) B) EMERGENCY SERVICES Emergency Food Pantries Homeless Outreach/Intervention Homelessness Prevention/Intervention Long Term Disaster Recovery Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Neighbor Helping Neighbor Senior Energy Assistance Services (SEAS) I) SELF-SUFFICIENCY English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) C) EMPLOYMENT Community Work Experience COMPASS Youth Families @ Work WIA Adult Disadvantaged Worker Program WIA Dislocated Worker Program Workplace Success RCA literacy programs open the world of reading to children. D) HEALTH E) HOUSING Elderly Housing HUD Section 202 (1) Elderly Housing Tax Credit (1) Fixit Program HOME Rehabilitation Program Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) Security Deposit Loan Program F) INCOME MANAGEMENT Electric Assistance Program (EAP) Fuel Assistance Budget Counseling Heating Repair/Replacement Project (HRRP) CORE Residential Conservation Programs Weatherization Assistance Program G) LINKAGES Area Outreach Centers Child Care Resource & Referral Family Support Project (WIC) 16 ROCKINGHAM COMMUNITY ACTION SUMMARY OF PROGRAM ExPENDITURES ROCkINGHAM COMMUNITY ACTION INFORMATION FOR FISCAL YEAR jULY 1, 2008 TO jUNE 30, 2009 Program Expenditures by Category Persons* by Category A. Education $1,587,265 5,296 B. Emergency Services $6,079,037 13,055 C. Employment $590,498 256 D. Health 0 0 E. Housing $20,000 173 F. Income Management $757,279 3,703 F. Linkages $362,000 2,270 G. Nutrition $623,408 4,066 H. Self-Sufficiency $321,910 1,440 TOTAL: $10,341,397 Number of Full Time Employees: 91 Number of Part Time Employees: 39 Payroll: $7,497,506 Volunteer Hours: 9,506 Value of Volunteer Hours: $198,200 (based on figure of $20.85/hr as determined by the Bureau of Labor Statistics for earnings in certain occupations and adjusted by Independent Sector to include benefits) Value of In-Kind Donations: $764,904 * These figures may represent duplicated counts. 17 Households* by Category 5,552 SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE SERVICES, INC. SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE SERvICES, INC. Main Office Location 40 Pine St. PO Box 5040 Manchester, NH 03108-5040 Tel. (603) 668-8010 Fax (603) 645-6744 Hillsborough County: 1-800-322-1073 www.snhs.org Outreach Offices Greenville 54-56 Main St. (603) 878-3364 Hillsboro 21 School St. (603) 464-3136 Manchester 160 Silver St. (603) 647-4470 Program Service Sites Ashland Bristol Deerfield Epping Golfstown Greenfield Hillsboro Hudson Manchester Nashua Merrimack 134 Alids St. (603) 889-3440 or 877-211-0723 Milford Nashua North Berwick, ME Peterborough Peterborough The River Center Pittsburg 46 Concord St. (603) 924-2243 or 877-757-7048 Raymond Rochester Weare Board of Directors Chairman: Vice-Chairman: Secretary: Treasurer: Public Sector Sen. Lou D’Allesandro Constance Erickson Linda T. Foster Tom Mullins Christopher Pappas Private Sector Dolores Bellavance Richard Delay, Sr. Wayne R. Johnson Mary M. Moriarty German Ortiz Patricia Spirou Low-Income Sector Janet Allard James Brown Nancy Guthrie Norma Roy Leo G. Sauve, Sr. Martha Verville Wayne R. Johnson Richard Delay, Sr. Mary Moriarty Constance J. Erickson Head Start-Policy Council Vacant Senior Staff Gale F. Hennessy, CCAP Michael O’Shea Deborah Gosselin, CCAP Diane Erikson Jeanne Agri Christine Beauvais Louise Bergeron Frank Boudreau Ryan Clouthier Kathleen Devlin William Hart Douglas Heuser Dee Martin Gregory Schneider, CCAP Debra Sevigny Michael Tabory Executive Director Deputy Director/Fiscal Officer Program Operations Director Administrative Assistant Child Development Director Workforce Development Operations Administrator Energy Director NH Employment Program Administrator Weatherization Director Community Health and Nutrition Services Director Facilities and Housing Development Director SEE Science Center Director Volunteer Services Director Community and Multi-Cultural Services Director EEO Officer Housing Director Human Resources Director 18 SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE SERVICES, INC. LETTER FROM THE ExECUTIvE DIRECTOR Southern New Hampshire Services is the Community Action Agency for New Hampshire’s largest county; Hillsborough County includes twenty-nine towns and the state’s two largest cities. This area includes small rural communities such as Windsor and Sharon, and diverse inner-city neighborhoods. Providing services and opportunities to a mixed population is often a challenge. Many inner-city residents do not use English as their first language and are unfamiliar with our customs and traditions. Those living in small towns have problems accessing transportation, and medical and dental services. To provide our families with effective services and more opportunities, it’s important to collaborate with local government and schools, with other non-profits, and with concerned citizen groups. The programs of Southern New Hampshire Services concentrate on providing access to improve a family’s ability to secure the basics of life; therefore, housing, employment, health and nutrition services, and education are priorities at SNHS. • Housing: We operate 900 units of housing; we have built, own and operate over 800 units of elderly housing, and have two housing projects for homeless individuals. We also have a network of homeless outreach programs. Our Energy Department, through LIHEAP and EAP, helps pay the heating, cooling, and electric costs of thousands of homes. Our Weatherization and Lead Paint Programs make homes more efficient and safe. • Nutrition and Health: Through our Women, Infants and Children’s Nutrition Program (WIC), Commodity Supplemental Food, Community Gardens, and Summer Feeding Services Programs, we offer access to healthy food, nutrition education, and referrals to health services. • Education: Our Child Development Programs include Head Start, Early Head Start, and Child Care. We also offer a Youth Empowerment Program for older youth. Our Employment and Training Programs place heavy emphasis on continuing education, and the SEE Science Center is a well known and popular learning experience for youth of all ages. • Employment: Preparation for work and training activities are the core of our Employment Programs. We offer training and job opportunities for individuals who are unemployed due to downturns in the local economy as well as those exiting public assistance. Our Youth Programs are for individuals just entering the workforce. SNHS also offers Correctional Alternative Programs with emphasis on work readiness and job placement. One of the great strengths of Community Action is the local Agencies’ ability to adapt quickly, respond effectively and deliver services, and by taking advantage of unusual opportunities. A recent example was SNHS’ ability to use ARRA (American Recovery & Reinvestment Act) funds to retain and/or create approximately 59 jobs in Hillsborough County, providing additional services in the areas of Head Start, the Summer Feeding Services Program, Multi-cultural Services, Child Care, Employment Services, Housing, and a huge increase in the number of homes weatherized. These ARRA programs were available only for a period of months and, at the most, two years. Our ability to take immediate advantage and produce job opportunities highlighted the flexibility and responsiveness of Community Action. Gale F. Hennessy, Executive Director Southern New Hampshire Services, Inc. Newly-arrived refugees and immigrants enjoy social, recreational and educational experiences through Southern New Hampshire Services’ B.R.I.N.G.-I.T.!! Program. 19 SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE SERVICES, INC. AGENCY PROGRAMS A) EDUCATION Early Head Start Head Start Pen Pal Program Science Enrichment Encounters (SEE) Science Center G) LINKAGES Area Outreach Centers Economic Opportunity Center Family Support Services Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) Rural Transportation Services Seniors Count (Nashua) Seniors Count Neighbors Care (Manchester) Thresholds and Decisions B) EMERGENCY SERVICES Continuum of Care Family Emergency Loan Program FEMA Energy Assistance Homeless Outreach/Intervention Program Homelessness Prevention/Intervention Long Term Disaster Recovery Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Neighbor Helping Neighbor Senior Energy Assistance Services (SEAS) H) NUTRITION Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) Community Gardens Emergency Food Assistance Program Summer Food Service Program Women Infants and Children Nutrition Program (WIC) WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program C) EMPLOYMENT Community Work Experience COMPASS Youth Families @ Work New Hampshire Employment Program WIA Adult Disadvantaged Worker Program WIA Dislocated Worker Program Workplace Success Youth Empowerment Program I) SELF-SUFFICIENCY Bringing Refugees, Immigrants and Neighbors Gently Into Tomorrow (B.R.I.N.G.I.T.!!!) Child Care Child Care Resource and Referral English for Speakers of Other Languages Eileen Phinney Center North Peterborough Family Program Pre-Placement Program D) HEALTH E) HOUSING Elderly Housing HUD Section 202 (19) Elderly Housing Tax Credit (1) Fixit Program HOME Rehabilitation Program Mary’s House Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) Robinson House Lead Paint Hazard Control Program F) INCOME MANAGEMENT CORE Residential Conservation Programs Electric Assistance Program (EAP) Fuel Assistance Budget Counseling Heating Repair/Replacement Project (HRRP) National Grid Weatherization Program Weatherization Assistance Program USDA Undersecretary Kevin Concannon gets a first-hand look at the implentation of USDA supported programs during a visit to Southern New Hampshire Services’ Child Care and Community Health and Nutrition Program offices. Photo courtesy of the New Hampshire Union Leader. 20 SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE SERVICES, INC. SUMMARY OF PROGRAM ExPENDITURES SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE SERvICES, INC. INFORMATION FOR FISCAL YEAR AUGUST 1, 2008 TO jULY 31, 2009 Program Expenditures by Category Persons* by Category Households* by Category A. Education $5,666,842 808 B. Emergency Services 11,638,479 35,568 C. Employment $6,024,216 3,475 D. Health 30,400 710 E. Housing $6,048,068 1,559 F. Income Management 4,884,005 803 F. Linkages $326,570 903 G. Nutrition $5,554,707 15,389 H. Self-Sufficiency $1,752,735 1,274 TOTAL: $41,926,022 Number of Full Time Employees: 333 Number of Part Time Employees: 92 Payroll: $9,244,842 Volunteer Hours: 35,344 Value of Volunteer Hours: $736,922 (based on figure of $20.85/hr as determined by the Bureau of Labor Statistics for earnings in certain occupations and adjusted by Independent Sector to include benefits) Value of In-Kind Donations: $800,459 15,432 48,367 meals * These figures may represent duplicated counts. Southern New Hampshire Services’ Riverview Village in Bristol is home to 19 low-income seniors. 21 SOUTHWESTERN COMMUNITY SERVICES, INC. SOUTHWESTERN COMMUNITY SERvICES, INC. Main Office Location 63 Community Way PO Box 603 Keene, NH 03431 Tel. (603) 352-7512 Fax (603) 352-3618 www.scshelps.org 96-102 Main St. PO Box 1338 Claremonth, NH 03743 Tel. (603) 542-9528 Fax (603) 542-3140 Board of Directors Chairman: Vice-Chairman: Secretary/Treasurer: Assistant Secretary/ Treasurer: Program Service Sites Alstead Charlestown Claremont Hinsdale Jaffrey Keene Newport North Walpole Swanzey Troy Walpole Winchester Kevin Watterson Scott Croteau Elaine M. Amer Cheryl Gallien Leroy Austin Ann Beattie Robert Beauregard Penny Despres David Edkins Raymond Gagnon Louis Remi Gendron David Hill Mary Lou Huffling Charles Miller Sen. Robert Odell Dawn Ranny Senior Staff William Marcello John Manning Tina Roy Keith Thibaullt James Stitham Gail Merrill Chief Executive Officer Chief Financial Officer Chief Administrative Officer Chief Development Officer Compliance Officer Community Services Director 22 SOUTHWESTERN COMMUNITY SERVICES, INC. LETTER FROM THE CHIEF ExECUTIvE OFFICER Southwestern Community Services (SCS) is a major provider of social services to the residents of Sullivan and Cheshire Counties in New Hampshire. During the Year 2009, SCS provided assistance to 31,788 residents representing more than 18,636 households. Southwestern Community Services provides a myriad of assistance through transitional housing and emergency shelter programs, workforce and senior rental housing, education and childcare, nutrition and health, energy conservation, utility programs, day and employment services for developmentally disabled individuals, and workforce development services for clients and dislocated workers. We are proud of the positive impact we have made on the lives of so many individuals and families. While we acknowledge the importance of diversity of the assistance our programs offer to meet our consumers’ immediate needs, it is also important to underscore that our mission is designed to put them on the road to self-sufficiency. For more than four decades the flexibility of SCS’ resources and approaches in addressing the needs of our consumers has been one of our strongest weapons in fighting President Lyndon Johnson’s “War on Poverty” For 46 years, including the current downturn in the economy, through our many, many successes, and even some failures, SCS has come to recognize that two events need to occur in order for our residents to achieve economic independence. The first is that decent, affordable housing needs to be available in all of our communities. In addition to rental opportunities, this should also include the opportunity for home ownership. The second event is to provide meaningful employment. By this we mean the availability of jobs, close to where folks live. These jobs should provide a chance for advancement as well as a livable wage with fringe benefits and health insurance. We believe that by working together we can reach our goal of making a difference in the lives of our citizens by helping them to help themselves achieve economic independence. Bill Marcello, Chief Executive Officer Southwestern Community Services Head Start 23 SOUTHWESTERN COMMUNITY SERVICES, INC. AGENCY PROGRAMS A) EDUCATION Head Start G) LINKAGES Area Outreach Centers Elder Support Program ServiceLink (Sullivan County) B) EMERGENCY SERVICES Continuum of Care Emergency Food Pantries Homeless Outreach and Intervention Program Homeless Transitional Housing Program Homelessness Prevention/Intervention Program Housing and Shelter Program Long Term Disaster Recovery Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Monadnock Area Housing Coalition Neighbor Helping Neighbor New Start Program NH Security Guarantee Deposit Program NH Housing Security Guarantee Program Senior Energy Assistance Services (SEAS) Sullivan County Housing Coalition H) NUTRITION Breastfeeding Peer Counseling Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) Emergency Food Assistance Food Program Farmers Market Nutrition Program Women Infants & Children’s Nutrition Program (WIC) I) SELF-SUFFICIENCY Community Development Block Grant Community Development Investment Program New Hope New Horizons C) EMPLOYMENT Community Work Experience Families @ Work WIA Adult Disadvantaged Worker Program WIA Dislocated Worker Program Workplace Success TANF - Job Retention and Advancement New Hope New Horizons D) HEALTH Health Insurance Counseling for Seniors (HICEAS) E) HOUSING Elderly Housing Section 202 (3) Elderly Housing Tax Credits (4) Family Workforce Housing HOME Rehabilitation Program Rural Development/Housing Preservation Grant Security Deposit Loan Program F) INCOME MANAGEMENT CORE Residential Conservation Programs Electric Assistance Program (EAP) Heating Repair/Replacement Project (HRRP) Weatherization Assistance Program 24 SOUTHWESTERN COMMUNITY SERVICES, INC. SUMMARY OF PROGRAM ExPENDITURES SOUTHWESTERN COMMUNITY SERvICES, INC. INFORMATION FOR FISCAL YEAR jULY 1, 2008 TO jUNE 30, 2009 Program Expenditures by Category Persons* by Category Households* by Category A. Education $2,386,206 251 234 B. Emergency Services $7,457,614 16,898 12,432 C. Employment $1,103,721 618 617 D. Health 0 0 E. Housing $5,410,240 1,157 F. Income Management $0 0 F. Linkages $256,054 5,462 1,362 G. Nutrition $454,516 6,533 3,397 H. Self-Sufficiency $828,552 669 188 TOTAL: $17,896,903 Number of Full Time Employees: 181 Number of Part Time Employees: 67 Payroll: $5,740,473 Volunteer Hours: 24,947 Value of Volunteer Hours: $520,145 (based on figure of $20.85/hr as determined by the Bureau of Labor Statistics for earnings in certain occupations and adjusted by Independent Sector to include benefits) Value of In-Kind Donations: $524,156 * These figures may represent duplicated counts. 25 406 STRAFFORD COUNTY COMMUNITY ACTION COMMITTEE, INC. STRAFFORD COUNTY COMMUNITY ACTION COMMITTEE, INC. Main Office Location 270 County Farm Road (PO Box 160) Dover, NH 03821-0160 Tel. (603) 516-8130 Fax (603) 516-8140 www.straffcap.org Program Service Sites Dover Farmington Milton Rochester Somersworth Head Start Administration 60 Charles Street (PO Box 607) Farmington, NH 03836 Outreach Offices Dover Outreach Office Tel. (603) 749-1334 Fax (603) 749-3718 Farmington Outreach Office Tel. (603) 755-9305 Fax (603) 755-2879 Milton Outreach Office Tel. (603) 652-4863 Fax: (603) 652-4865 Rochester Outreach Office Tel. (603) 332-3963 Fax (603) 335-7461 Milton Children’s Center Tel. (603) 652-0990 Fax (603) 652-9077 Board of Directors Senior Staff Chairperson: Vice-Chairperson: Secretary: Treasurer: Betsy Andrews Parker Raymond McGilvray Jim Butterfield Joyce Kimball Marybeth Schofield Ann Ringling Michelle Hart Gwen Erley Lynda Dow Janet Plaisted Nancy Morneault Melissa Fredericks Kathy Radwan Deborah Casey Susan Ford Linda Blough Public Sector Leo Lessard Ray Lundborn Earle Goodwin Carolyn Berryment Jennifer Bisson Private Sector Kimberly Alty Carol Garlough Dorothy Holmes Reverend Mark Rideout Jennifer Soldati Thurman Bryson Rev. Mark Rideout Dorothy Holmes Jennifer Soldati Community Sector Thurman Bryson Ken Farnan Bruce Pelletier Debbie Raimondo Jackie Perreault 26 Executive Director Deputy Director Fiscal Officer LIHEAP Program Director Weatherization Program Director Head Start Director Workforce Development Director Workplace Success Director Community Representative – Milton Community Representative – Farmington Community Representative – Rochester Community Representative - Dover Self-Sufficiency Program Director Self Sufficiency Manager Homeless Outreach/Intervention Covered Bridge Manor Services Coordinator STRAFFORD COUNTY COMMUNITY ACTION COMMITTEE, INC. LETTER FROM THE ExECUTIvE DIRECTOR Strafford County Community Action Committee (SCCAC) continues to serve the residents of Strafford County with programs and services that benefit at risk individuals. For over 45 years, SCCAC has worked to ensure that no family or individual goes without the basic needs in life, such as food, housing, utilities and heat. In today’s economy, these services are vital to the health and safety of our community. With six outreach offices, we are able to respond quickly with targeted forms of assistance appropriate to the situation. Our network of public and private sector partnerships and volunteers allow us to deliver services efficiently and effectively. In the past year, Fuel Assistance participation increased by 4%, emergency food pantry usage increased by 17% and Head Start operated at full capacity. While we remain hopeful that the economy will improve, the latest performance indicators show that Strafford County citizens will not feel the end of the current financial crisis for at least the next 24 months. Median monthly rent for a two bedroom apartment in Strafford County is estimated to be $962 per month. A minimum wage worker earning $7.25 per hour will have to work more than three weeks just to pay the rent. We estimate that in the coming year we will continue to see additional households added to the lengthening rolls of families struggling to make ends meet. However, we are confident the programs and services at SCCAC will be able to address the needs of the clients. Finally, after 37 years as the leader of SCCAC, Dick Hayes retired from his position as Executive Director. He leaves a long legacy and will be missed. The staff wishes him the best. We hope he will not be a stranger at the Agency. We look forward to serving the residents in Stafford County in 2011. Sincerely, Betsey Andrews Parker Executive Director Head Start 27 STRAFFORD COUNTY COMMUNITY ACTION COMMITTEE, INC. AGENCY PROGRAMS A) EDUCATION Baby’s Best Beginnings Early Head Start Head Start Summer Recreation Traveling Tales G) LINKAGES Area Outreach Centers Elderly Transportation Program Volunteer Transportation Services H) NUTRITION Emergency Food Assistance Program B) EMERGENCY SERVICES Emergency Food Pantries Homelessness Outreach/Intervention Program Homelessness Prevention/Intervention Program Individual Needs Program Long Term Disaster Recovery Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program Neighbor Helping Neighbor NH Security Guarantee Deposit Program Senior Energy Assistance Services (SEAS) Utility Assistance I) SELF-SUFFICIENCY Self-Sufficiency Case Management C) EMPLOYMENT Community Work Experience Families @ Work WIA Adult Disadvantaged Worker Program WIA Dislocated Worker Program Workforce Development Program Workplace Success D) HEALTH Health Insurance Counseling for Seniors (HICEAS) E) HOUSING Elderly Housing HUD Section 202 (1) Fixit Program HOME Rehabilitation Program Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) Rochester Homeless Housing Initiative Rochester Rehab Program Security Deposit Loan Program Special Needs Access Program Supportive Housing F) INCOME MANAGEMENT CORE Residential Conservation Program Dover CDBG Electric Assistance Program (EAP) Heating Repair/Replacement Project (HRRP) Northern Utilities Conservation Program Rochester CDBG Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) 28 STRAFFORD COUNTY COMMUNITY ACTION COMMITTEE, INC. SUMMARY OF PROGRAM ExPENDITURES STRAFFORD COUNTY COMMUNITY ACTION COMMITTEE INFORMATION FOR FISCAL YEAR jANUARY 1, 2009 TO DECEMBER 31, 2009 Program Expenditures by Category Persons* by Category Households* by Category A. Education $2,478,828 955 B. Emergency Services $5,181,664 11,824 C. Employment $429,480 302 D. Health $0 0 E. Housing $372,820 115 F. Income Management $642,163 3,203 F. Linkages $676,685 808 G. Nutrition $313,182 10,103 H. Self-Sufficiency $699,215 392 TOTAL: $10,794,037 Number of Full Time Employees: 143 Number of Part Time Employees: 18 Payroll: $3,275,884 Volunteer Hours: 46,098 Value of Volunteer Hours: $961,143 (based on figure of $20.85/hr as determined by the Bureau of Labor Statistics for earnings in certain occupations and adjusted by Independent Sector to include benefits) Value of In-Kind Donations: $736,627 4,606 * These figures may represent duplicated counts. Weatherization 29 TRI-COUNTY COMMUNITY ACTION TRI-COUNTY COMMUNITY ACTION Main Office Location 30 Exchange Street Berlin, NH 03570 Tel. (603) 752-7001 www.tccap.org Board of Directors President: Vice-Presidents: Secretary: Treasurer: Karen Tippitt John Walsh Ed Labonville Jim Weagle Michael Cryans Jim Anan Suzanne Moberly Ned Densmore Anne Martin Joe Costello Rita Libby Stan Judge Nancy Plantinga Rudy Urban William Hatch Program Service Sites Ashland Berlin Bethlehem Colebrook Concord Conway Dummer Enfield Gorham Groveton Lancaster Littleton Lebanon Ossipee Pittsburg Plymouth Sanbornbille Tamworth Whitefield Wolfboro Woodsville Senior Staff Lawrence M. Kelly Peter Higbee Dori Ducharme Sue French Dick Huot Norman Charest Philip Guiser Kathy McCosh Kathy McKenna Patti Stolte Beverly Raymond Lucille Tremblay Kristy Letendre Alison Morgan Rita Bergeron Donna Keddy Jeanne Robillard Executive Director Deputy Director Fiscal Director Administrative Assistant Northern Forest Heritage Park/Property Manager Economic Development Director Energy Programs Director Energy Programs Manager Volunteer Programs Director North Country Elder Programs Director Transportation Director AoD Director AoD Administrative Assistant Head Start Director Head Start Administrative Assistant Guardianship Director Support Center @ Burch House 30 TRI-COUNTY COMMUNITY ACTION LETTER FROM THE ExECUTIvE DIRECTOR Dear Friends, The ravages of the recent downturn are further weakening Northern New Hampshire’s already vulnerable economy. In response, Tri-County CAP’s dedicated staff and volunteers are working to mitigate the consequences, assist the victims and restore our infrastructure. Job Training and Employment Assistance programs are being combined with community and economic development projects to stimulate our economy, develop our communities and employ our people. At the same time, our efforts in the areas of comprehensive early childhood development, youth alternatives, volunteer services, alcohol and other drug treatment and prevention, elder services, nutrition, fuel assistance, weatherization, emergency services, homeless response, domestic violence prevention, guardianship and transportation work to stabilize families, solve problems, avert pain and suffering and realize potential across our service area: including the North Country, Upper Valley, Upper Lakes and White Mountains. We hope that you will find this report, highlighting many of these activities, both useful and informative. We further hope that you will partner with us and our colleagues in the ongoing effort to help people, change lives and make a real difference in our communities. Sincerely, Lawrence M. Kelly Executive Director Head Start 31 TRI-COUNTY COMMUNITY ACTION AGENCY PROGRAMS A) EDUCATION Head Start H) NUTRITION Emergency Food Assistance Program Senior Meals/Meals on Wheels B) EMERGENCY SERVICES Housing WIN (HPRP) 10 Bricks Homeless Shelter Continuum of Care Emergency Food Pantries Homeless Outreach/Intervention &Prevention Program Long-term Disaster Recovery Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program Neighbor Helping Neighbor Senior Energy Assistance Services (SEAS) Tyler Blain House I) SELF-SUFFICIENCY Alcohol and Other Drug Programs Friendship House Services C) EMPLOYMENT Community Work Experience WIA Adult Disadvantaged Worker Program WIA Dislocated Worker Program Workplace Success Families @ Work D) HEALTH Elder Programs Adult Day Care Program North Country Alzheimer’s Partnership Health Insurance Counseling Education Assistance Service (HICEAS) Tamworth Dental Center E) HOUSING HOME Rehabilitation Program Rural Housing Preservation Grant Senior Meals F) INCOME MANAGEMENT CORE Residential Conservation Program Electric Assistance Program (EAP) Heating Repair/Replacement Project (HRRP) Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) HUD Housing Counseling G) LINKAGES Area Outreach Centers Carroll County Collaborative Carroll County Restorative Justice Economic and Community Development Granite State Guardianship Services North Country Senior Wheels Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) Rural Transportation Program Service Link Aging & Disabilities Resource Center Support Center at Burch House 32 TRI-COUNTY COMMUNITY ACTION SUMMARY OF PROGRAM ExPENDITURES TRI-COUNTY COMMUNITY ACTION INFORMATION FOR FISCAL YEAR jULY 1, 2009 TO jUNE 30, 2010 Program Expenditures by Category Persons* by Category Households* by Category A. Education $2,096,821 B. Emergency Services $5,689,451 C. Employment $585,363 D. Health $185,227 E. Housing $147,365 F. Income Management $1,832,699 F. Linkages $4,896,288 G. Nutrition $953,812 3,900 H. Self-Sufficiency $1,505,647 1,612 TOTAL: $17,892,673 Number of Full Time Employees: 290 Number of Part Time Employees: 63 Payroll: $7,116,893 Volunteer Hours: 540 Value of Volunteer Hours: $11,259 (based on figure of $20.85/hr as determined by the Bureau of Labor Statistics for earnings in certain occupations and adjusted by Independent Sector to include benefits) Value of In-Kind Donations: $55,021 13,290 130 122 6,870 * These figures may represent duplicated counts. Community Contact 33 SUMMARY OF COMMUNITY ACTION PROGRAM ExPENDITURES (AGENCY 2009 FISCAL YEAR) Agency Budget Amount Community Action Program Belknap-Merrimack Counties $31,657,816 Rockingham Community Action $10,341,397 Southern New Hampshire Services $41,926,022 Southwestern Community Services $17,896,903 Strafford County Community Action Committee $10,794,037 Tri-County Community Action $17,892,673 Total $130,508,848 34 ECONOMIC AND DEMOGRAPHIC INFOMATION 35 ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF NEW HAMPSHIRE’S COMMUNITY ACTION AGENCIES ON THE NEW HAMPSHIRE ECONOMY During the most recent fiscal year, the six Community Action Agencies (CAAs) in New Hampshire expended $130,508,848 in the state through the standard contracting and budgeting process. They purchased building and insulating materials, office products, computers, health services, food, printing services, vehicles, fuel, contract services, and a host of other goods and services. They also currently provide full and part-time employment to approximately 1,800 New Hampshire residents, many of whom are (or were) low income. More than $41,017,558 was put into the state economy in the form of wages paid of Community Action Agency employees. Through the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), New Hampshire CAAs received additional onetime funding of $5,000,000 in Community Service Block Grant funds. With this money which only became available in September 2009, CAAs in New Hampshire were able to create or retain more than the equivalent of 47 full time jobs thru March, 2010. New programs and initiatives were developed, others were saved from elimination, and many more residents of the state received services. By the time the funding period is over, more than 4 million additional dollars will have been invested in the New Hampshire economy. In excess of 90 percent of the funding for CAAs comes into New Hampshire from the Federal government to support the many locally managed programs and services these six agencies provide to 175,000 New Hampshire residents on an annual basis. While it is easy to track the Federal dollars which pass through the budgets of the Community Action Agencies, the overall economic impact goes far beyond these budget expenditures. Not included in that figure are other Federal dollars which do not pass through Community Action budgets, but are components of programs managed by Community Action Agencies. Included in this category are funding for Section 8 rent subsidies and WIC vouchers, for example, amounting to millions of dollars for low income New Hampshire citizens. Individuals as well as the state economy benefit in several ways from Community Action’s presence. Low income elderly and families are able to put more of their income toward other expenses due to discounted utility rate programs managed by Community Action. Communities benefit from the tens of thousands of volunteer hours spent in Community Action Agencies on their behalf, in addition to the transportation services provided and the increased earning power of formerly unemployed or underemployed individuals who benefit from workforce development and training programs. A concrete example of this economic benefit to all of the people of New Hampshire is the Families @ Work program. This important initiative provides support to former recipients of Temporary Assistance to Needy Families, a public assistance program commonly referred to as TANF. When TANF recipients find employment and leave the program, Families @ Work provides material support to prevent recidivism and help the families maintain their economic self-sufficiency. Statistics demonstrate that after one year of employment, only 25% of Families @ Work participants return to public assistance, compared to the state average recidivism rate of 40%. This amounts to tens of thousands of dollars in savings to taxpayers of New Hampshire, as well as an increased number of self-sufficient and productive taxpayers supporting local economies. As impressive as the economic factors are, the total impact of Community Action reaches far beyond budget dollars. Programs and services help build stronger communities and create positive change for individuals and families, leading to self-sufficiency and a brighter future for them and the communities in which they live. 36 2010 FEDERAL POvERTY GUIDELINES Family Size 50% 75% 100% 133% 150% 185% 1 5,415 8,123 10,830.00 14,403.90 16,245.00 20,035.50 2 7,285 10,928 14,570.00 19,378.10 21,855.00 26,954.50 3 9,155 13,733 18,310.00 24,352.30 27,465.00 33,873.50 4 11,025 16,538 22,050.00 29,326.50 33,075.00 40,792.50 5 12,895 19,343 25,790.00 34,300.70 38,685.00 47,711.50 6 14,765 22,148 29,530.00 39,284.90 44,295.00 54,630.50 7 16,635 24,953 33,270.00 44,249.10 49,905.00 61,549.50 8 18,505 27,758 37,010.00 49,223.30 55,515.00 68,468.50 There are two basic measurements of poverty used by the Federal government. The original of these measurements, called the poverty threshold, was developed in the early 1960’s by Molly Orshansky, an economist in the Social Security Administration. She developed what actually became multiple thresholds based on USDA food plans. The poverty thresholds are updated each year, and are used by the Census Bureau mainly for statistical purposes such as preparing estimates of the number of Americans in poverty each year. The poverty guidelines are a somewhat simplified version of the thresholds and are issued annually by the Federal Department of Health and Human Services. The guidelines are used for administrative purposes such as determining eligibility for certain federal programs, including many Community Action Programs, such as Head Start, the LowIncome Home Energy Assistance Program, and WIC. Federal departments frequently use percentage multiples of the guidelines in determining eligibility, which may vary from program to program. 37 NEW HAMPSHIRE 2010 ECONOMIC REvIEW NEW HAMPSHIRE’S PER CAPITA INCOME, UNEMOPLOYMENT, AND HOUSEHOLD EMPLOYMENT BY COUNTY 38 NEW HAMPSHIRE 2007 AMERICAN COMMUNITY SURvEY DATA PROFILE HIGHLIGHTS People QuickFacts Population, 2009 estimate Population, percent change, April 1, 2000 to July 1, 2009 Population estimates base (April 1) 2000 Persons under 5 years old, percent, 2009 Persons under 18 years old, percent, 2009 Persons 65 years old and over, percent, 2009 Female persons, percent, 2009 New Hampshire 1,324,575 7.2% 1,235,791 5.6% 21.8% 13.5% 50.7% USA 307,006,550 9.1% 281,424,602 6.9% 24.3% 12.9% 50.7% White persons, percent, 2009 (a) Black persons, percent, 2009 (a) American Indian and Alaska Native persons, percent, 2009 (a) Asian persons, percent, 2009 (a) Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander, percent, 2009 (a) Persons reporting two or more races, percent, 2009 Persons of Hispanic or Latino origin, percent, 2009 (b) White persons not Hispanic, percent, 2009 95.3% 1.4% 0.3% 2.0% Z 1.1% 2.8% 92.8% 79.6% 12.9% 1.0% 4.6% 0.2% 1.7% 15.8% 65.1% Living in same house in 1995 and 2000, pct 5 yrs old & over Foreign born persons, percent, 2000 Language other than English spoken at home, pct age 5+, 2000 High school graduates, percent of persons age 25+, 2000 Bachelor's degree or higher, pct of persons age 25+, 2000 Persons with a disability, age 5+, 2000 Mean travel time to work (minutes), workers age 16+, 2000 55.4% 4.4% 8.3% 87.4% 28.7% 193,893 25.3 54.1% 11.1% 17.9% 80.4% 24.4% 49,746,248 25.5 Housing units, 2009 Homeownership rate, 2000 Housing units in multi-unit structures, percent, 2000 Median value of owner-occupied housing units, 2000 600,251 69.7% 26.5% $133,300 129,925,421 66.2% 26.4% $119,600 Households, 2000 Persons per household, 2000 Median household income, 2008 Per capita money income, 1999 Persons below poverty level, percent, 2008 474,606 2.53 $63,235 $23,844 7.8% 105,480,101 2.59 $52,029 $21,587 13.2% Business QuickFacts Private nonfarm establishments, 2007 Private nonfarm employment, 2007 Private nonfarm employment, percent change 2000-2007 Nonemployer establishments, 2007 Total number of firms, 2002 Black-owned firms, percent, 2002 American Indian and Alaska Native owned firms, percent, 2002 Asian-owned firms, percent, 2002 Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander owned firms, percent, 2002 Hispanic-owned firms, percent, 2002 Women-owned firms, percent, 2002 New Hampshire 39,453 573,209 4.9% 108,506 125,388 0.4% 0.4% 1.2% 0.0% 0.7% 24.7% USA 7,705,018 120,604,265 5.7% 21,708,021 22,974,655 5.2% 0.9% 4.8% 0.1% 6.8% 28.2% Manufacturers shipments, 2002 ($1000) Wholesale trade sales, 2002 ($1000) Retail sales, 2002 ($1000) Retail sales per capita, 2002 Accommodation and foodservices sales, 2002 ($1000) Building permits, 2009 Federal spending, 2008 15,235,144 13,741,876 20,830,057 $16,330 2,082,145 2,287 10,311,495 3,916,136,712 4,634,755,112 3,056,421,997 $10,615 449,498,718 582,963 2,771,782,152 Geography QuickFacts Land area, 2000 (square miles) Persons per square mile, 2000 FIPS Code New Hampshire 8,968.10 137.8 33 USA 3,537,438.44 79.6 (a) Includes persons reporting only one race. (b) Hispanics may be of any race, so also are included in applicable race categories. FN: Footnote on this item for this area in place of data NA: Not available D: Suppressed to avoid disclosure of confidential information X: Not applicable S: Suppressed; does not meet publication standards Z: Value greater than zero but less than half unit of measure shown F: Fewer than 100 firms Source: US Census Bureau State & County QuickFacts 39 NEW HAMPSHIRE 2010 ECONOMIC REvIEW RATE OF UNEMPLOYMENT 40 NEW HAMPSHIRE 2010 ECONOMIC REvIEW NEW HAMPSHIRE kEY ECONOMIC INDICATORS, 1999-2009 41 NEW HAMPSHIRE 2010 ECONOMIC REvIEW GROWTH AND OTHER ECONOMIC FACTORS IN NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW ENGLAND, AND THE UNITED STATES 42 NEW HAMPSHIRE 2010 ECONOMIC REvIEW PER CAPITA FUNDING FROM ARRA BY STATE Not all states are receiving the same amount of funds from the ARRA. New Hampshire, in fact, is receiving less than other states in the Northeast. On a per capita basis all of the Northeastern states will receive an allocation of stimulus money above the U.S. average, with the exception of New Hampshire. Among the northeastern states, Rhode Island will receive about $2,260 per person, the highest of any state in the region, and second highest in the country (District of Columbia ranks first). Vermont, Maine, Massachusetts and Connecticut will all receive over $1,850 per person, while New Hampshire will receive about $1,600 per person. Per Capita Funding from ARRA by State The explanation for the lower level of funds per person funneled into New Hampshire can be found in the Federal funding formulas used to allocate money from the Federal government to the states. The Federal government used these existing formulas to portion out the stimulus package. For example, education funds from the Federal government are sent to the states based on how much localities spend on education and the percentage of poor students in the state. Workforce training funds are allocated based on state unemployment rates and other indicators of economic distress. New Hampshire, with its low poverty rate and relatively low unemployment rate, then gets less of the stimulus package per state resident. Rhode Island, which has an unemployment rate almost twice as high as New Hampshire’s, will receive more funding under the stimulus plan. 43 NEW HAMPSHIRE 2010 ECONOMIC REvIEW INITIAL CLAIMS FOR UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS IN NH, 1990-PRESENT “Continued weeks claimed for unemployment compensation” rose to over 125,000 by March 2009, the highest level of the last three decades. The state’s unemployment rate in June 2009 rose to a seasonally adjusted 6.8 percent; the New Hampshire employment base had shrunk by 14,000 jobs (2%) relative to just a year prior. THE NEW 60? SIGNIFICANT GROWTH OF THE POPULATION 75 - 79 Change in Population over the Age of 65, 2010-2030 44 NEW HAMPSHIRE 2010 ECONOMIC REvIEW PERCENT OF POPULATION AGE 65 AND OLDER BY COUNTY, 2030 Significant variation from community to community in the share of the population over the age of 65. 45 NEW HAMPSHIRE 2010 ECONOMIC REvIEW IS NEW HAMPSHIRE A LOW SPENDING STATE? New Hampshire is known as a low spending state. But there are many different ways to measure the state’s financial effort. By one measure often cited – per capita spending – we are the fourth lowest spending state in the country. By this measure, we are a very low spending state. However, spending per capita only tells one dimension of the spending story. Relative to personal income, state spending is low relative to the rest of the country. On the other hand, the demand for the state services which drive state expenditures – including means tested programs within Medicaid, for example – may be lower in New Hampshire than in other parts of the country. New Hampshire has the 9th highest per capita income in the country, and based on 2008-2009 data, the state’s poverty rate was the lowest in the country. When spending is assessed based on a measure which accounts for relative demand for services (in the case below, based on the number of individuals in poverty) New Hampshire ranks about in the middle of the country. That means that relative to the need (at least measured by poverty, which is only one of many different measures) New Hampshire spends about what every other state spends. The point of this from a policy perspective is not to suggest we are a high spending or a low spending state, but rather that “what the appropriate level of spending is” requires some subtle analysis that is often left out in public debates about the spending here in New Hampshire. State Spending Per Person In Poverty Source: Center for Public Policy Studies analysis of US Census data on spending and poverty populations. 46 NEW HAMPSHIRE 2010 ECONOMIC REvIEW OUR HIGH GROWTH YEARS ARE BEHIND US Even though New Hampshire is expected to be the fastest growing state in New England from 2000 to 2030, New Hampshire will be growing more slowly in the future than it has in the past. The following chart shows New Hampshire’s percent change in population growth for all decades since 1900 and includes the latest forecast through the year 2030 from the New Hampshire Office of Energy and Planning (OEP). The years shown on the chart signify each decade’s end. For example, from 1970 to 1980 New Hampshire’s population increased by 24.8%, the fastest growing ten years of any decade past or future. And, the decade from 1960 to 1970 was the second fastest, when New Hampshire’s population increased by 21.5%. In the last decade, 1990 to 2000, New Hampshire’s growth rate slowed to half as fast as in the previous decade, at 11.4%. New Hampshire’s Decadal Change in Population The forthcoming OEP forecast* calls for 7.6% growth in resident population from 2000 to 2010. For the forecast years beyond the year 2010, New Hampshire population growth rates areexpected to be lower still. But even at these future rates of 6.0% from 2010 to 2020 and 7.1% from 2020 to 2030, New Hampshire will still be the fastest growing state in New England. Source: New Hampshire Center for Public Policy Studies (NHCPPS) communication with the New Hampshire Office of Energy and Planning, 8/16/10 47 COMMUNITY ACTION CODE OF ETHICS We, as community action professionals, dedicate ourselves to eliminating poverty in the midst of plenty in this nation by opening to everyone the opportunity for education and training; the opportunity for work; and the opportunity to live in decency and dignity; and with respect for cultural diversity, commit ourselves to: • Recognize that the chief function of the community action movement at all times is to serve the best interests of the poor, thereby serving the best interests of all people. • Accept as a personal duty the responsibility to keep up to date on emerging issues and to conduct ourselves with professional competence, fairness, impartiality, efficiency, and effectiveness. • Respect the structure and responsibilities of the board of directors, provide them with facts and advice as a basis for their making policy decisions, and uphold and implement policies adopted by the board of directors. • Keep the community informed about issues affecting the poor; facilitate communication by the poor with locally elected public officials and the private sector. • Conduct our organizational and operational duties with positive leadership exemplified by open communication, creativity, dedication, and compassion. • Exercise whatever discretionary authority we have under the law to promote the interests of the poor. • Lead the community action movement with respect, concern, courtesy, and responsiveness, recognizing that service to the poor is beyond service to oneself. • Demonstrate the highest standards of personal integrity, truthfulness, honesty, and fortitude in all our community action activities in order to inspire confidence and trust in the community action movement. • Serve in such a way that we do not realize undue personal gain from the performance of our professional duties. • Avoid any interest or activity that is in conflict with the conduct of official duties. • Respect and protect privileged information to which we have access in the course of official duties. • Strive for professional excellence and encourage the professional development of our associates, including those seeking to become certified community action professionals. 48 COMMUNITY ACTION AGENCY PROGRAM INFOMATION 49 COMMUNITY ACTION AGENCY PROGRAM INFORMATION 6. Science Enrichment Encounters (SEE) Center A fully interactive science discovery center with more than 70 hands-on exhibits, offering work-shops, educational programs and functions for community and school groups. Agency offering this program: Southern Note: These are general program descriptions. The actual program at a specific agency may vary in some respects. A. Education 1. Adult Basic Education Classroom-based instruction is offered to older adolescents adults (16 years and older, formally withdrawn from high school) and adults in the areas of basic literacy skills (reading, writing and math), preGED and GED preparation. Agency offering this program: Rockingham 7. Summer Recreation Summer youth recreation project to benefit vulnerable youth by providing beneficial and enlightening field trips to points of interests not normally accessible to this target population. Agency offering this program: Strafford 2. Baby’s Best Beginnings Program provides home visiting services to at-risk pregnant women through the first year of the child's life. The program serves participants living in the northern tier of Strafford County by providing comprehensive services responding to the individual needs of families. Agency offering this program: Strafford 8. Pen Pal Program Third graders from Manchester schools improve language, communication and social skills through monthly correspondence during the school year with RVSP volunteers. The exchange of letters helps foster an interest in reading and letter writing and connects the children with a senior citizen which serves to enrich both generations. Agency offering this program: Southern 3. Early Head Start Program provides comprehensive services for families with children ages 0-3. Flexible program options, including center-based, home-based, combination programs and prenatal provide options for the varying needs of families. Agencies offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack Southern Strafford 9. Home Visiting New Hampshire This program provides regular home visits by a multidisciplinary team to Medicaid-eligible pregnant women and their families until the child is one year old. Agency offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack 10. Child Care Centers Provides access to quality, affordable, full day / full year child care services, and may include home visits, health and nutrition screening. Agency offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack 4. Head Start A comprehensive early childhood development program that includes home visits, and provides education, health, nutrition and family support services to income-eligible pre-school children ages 4-5 and their families. All agencies offer this program B. Emergency Services 1. Long-Term Disaster Recovery NH Community Action Agencies played in vital role in responding to the floods of 2005, 2006 and 2007, providing case management for affected persons in local communities, and coordinating with federal, state and local agencies assisting persons with repairing and rebuilding their homes and lives. NHCAA members are also partners in the state’s emergency response plans for dealing with future disasters. All agencies participate in this effort as required 5. Literacy Programs Programs promote literacy through volunteer read aloud programs in various settings, free book distribution and/or lending, parental involvement, and fun art and educational activities. Programs often involve traveling literacy vans visiting neighborhoods and housing complexes to engage families. Programs incorporated into this description: Rockingham – The Gift of Reading - Reading is Fundamental - Story Time in WIC Clinics - Tales to Go/Child Care Provider and Summer Projects Southern – The Gift of Reading Strafford – Traveling Tales 2. Emergency Food Pantries Programs provide emergency food packages to lowincome households and coordinate with other groups providing similar services. 50 COMMUNITY ACTION PROGRAM INFORMATION (CONTINUED) energy programs may receive assistance through special programs operated in cooperation with other community organizations, and funded by one or more of a number of local private funding sources. Programs incorporated into this description: All agencies - FEMA Emergency Assistance All agencies - Neighbor Helping Neighbor All agencies - Senior Energy Assistance Services (SEAS) Southern – Family Emergency Loan Program Agencies offering this service: Belknap-Merrimack Rockingham Southwestern Strafford Tri-County 3. Homeless Transitional Housing Program Providing long term rental opportunities to formerly homeless individuals and families. Program offers support and services to families who have “graduated” from emergency housing program. Agency offering this program: Southwestern 9. New Start Program Program provides prevention/intervention housing and support services for persons who are homeless or at risk. Provides a two year continuum of care for individual service plans in Merrimack County. Agencies offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack Southwestern 4. Homeless Prevention/Intervention The intent is to keep the individual or family in their home, and may include budget planning, advocacy, life skills training and other services, as well as a one-time grant or loan to assist with housing costs, utilities, car repairs or other emergency needs which cannot be met by other funding sources. Agencies offering this program: Rockingham Southern Southwestern Strafford Tri-County 10. NH Security Guarantee Deposit Program The Rental Guarantee Program assists homeless families in obtaining permanent housing by providing incentives to prospective landlords in the form of limited guarantees against loss due to damage or non-payment of rent. Agencies offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack Rockingham Southwestern Strafford Tri-County 5. Homeless Outreach and Intervention Program Through aggressive outreach and intervention, this program assures that all unsheltered people are identified and gain access to appropriate shelter and other necessary services. All agencies offer this program 11. Continuum of Care Statewide and local continuum’s of care are monthly meetings set up to meet and discuss homeless and at risk strategies with staff and directors from multiple agencies. Staff from New Start, Homeless Outreach and the Director attend both the Balance of State and Belknap Counties Continuum of Care meetings, as well as the Concord Coalition meeting. Agencies offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack Rockingham Southwestern Strafford Tri-County 6. Individual Needs Program These program meet needs ranging from personal care items to emergencies that cannot be met on a program basis or as regular budgeted costs, or that cannot be alleviated by referral to another agency. Agency offering this program: Strafford 7. Fuel Assistance Program (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program – LIHEAP) Provides elderly, disabled and low-income house-holds with financial assistance to help meet heating and utility expenses. Payments are made to local energy vendors or landlords if heat is included in the rent. Households may receive budget and energy counseling, and furnace cleaning services if necessary. All agencies offer this program 12. Emergency Assistance Supportive Housing Program This is a 24 month transitional supportive housing program funded through monies from Bureau of Homeless and Housing Services. This program provides the ability to house homeless individuals and families back into permanent housing, while also providing a 8. Emergency Energy Assistance Individuals and families who are ineligible for other 51 COMMUNITY ACTION PROGRAM INFORMATION (CONTINUED) rental assistance payment on the client’s behalf for up to 24 months. Agency offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack Temporary Aid to Needy Families (TANF) recipients. All agencies offer this program 3. New Hampshire Employment Program Teams located at thirteen NHWorks locations throughout the state provide financial assistance as well as employment and training support to TANF recipients. Agency offering this program: Southern 13. Homeless Housing & Access Revolving Loan Fund The HHARLF program is designed to assist homeless individuals and families access permanent housing. The fund is administered by the Department of Health and Human Services with advice and recommendations from the Governor’s Interagency Council on Homelessness. Funds shall be used solely to provide loans for the first month of rent and security deposit for homeless individuals and families. Agencies offering this service: Belknap-Merrimack Rockingham 4. Workplace Success Program As a complementary experience to Workplace the Success NH Community Action Agencies have also established the Workplace Success Program which combines 10 hours of class/lab instruction in Personal Workplace Skills; Getting & Keeping Employment; and Basic Technology Skills with 20 hours on-site Work Experience. All agencies offer this program 14. Short/Long Term Disaster Recovery Assist households affected by local disasters by providing case management recovery efforts and coordination with other relief agencies and programs for homeowner to return to safe housing. Agency offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack 5. Workforce Investment Act (WIA) WIA offers a wide array of employment and training services to adults 18 and older and dislocated workers based on individual need and choice. Services available include skills assessment, job search and placement assistance, labor market information, individual and group career counseling, case management, supportive services and occupational skills training. All agencies offer this program 15. Homeless Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program Recently we completed year one of the Homeless Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Federal Stimulus grant program working with those clients who were either extremely at risk or already homeless. The program was designed to “mirror” a Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher for a maximum of 18 months in an attempt to stabilize those families who were either homeless or imminently at risk of homelessness. Agency offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack 6. Workforce Development Program Employment Assistance and Occupational Skills Training are available to laid off workers and economically disadvantaged adults. Services available include one-onone job counseling and career exploration, resume writing, interviewing skills, barriers to success resolution, On the Job Training opportunities and Occupational Skills Training in demand occupations. Agency offering this program: Strafford 16. Utility Assistance Provides emergency assistance when no other funding sources are available. Agency offering this program: Strafford 7. New Hope New Horizons New Hope New Horizons provides employment, as well as day, outreach and residential services and supports to adults who have a developmental or acquired disability. Agency offering this program: Southwestern C. Employment 1. COMPASS Youth Intensive, one-on-one case management and re-sources help youth (16 -25 years old) to strengthen their education, job and life skills, and achieve long-term selfreliance. Agency offering this program: Rockingham 8. Community Work Experience NH Community Action Agencies now develop and fill unpaid Community Work Experience assign-ments for TANF recipients within non-profit and local government sites throughout the State, allowing them to develop basic employability skills, work experience, and potential job references. 2. Families @ Work Program is designed to increase job retention, achieve earnings gains, and reduce recidivism among 52 COMMUNITY ACTION PROGRAM INFORMATION (CONTINUED) 3. Family Planning Program provides access to preventive and reproductive health care for women and teens. Services include medical exams, testing, education and referrals. Services are available on a sliding fee scale. Agency offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack All agencies offer this program 9. Youth Empowerment Program Program combines GED preparation and remedial education, pre-employment skills, training and jobshadowing for unemployed youths aged 18-21 who have dropped out of school. Agency offering this program: Southern 4. Prenatal Program Program promotes healthy pregnancy outcomes by providing access to comprehensive prenatal care to income-eligible pregnant women and teens who reside in Belknap County or southern Carroll County. Agency offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack 10. Senior Community Service Employment Program This program assists low-income, unemployed adults 55 years of age and older in obtaining employment through time-limited placement in part-time subsidized jobs with local non-profit and public agencies. Participants receive job search training and gain skills and experiences as they seek non-subsidized employment. Agency offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack 5. STD/HIV Counseling and Testing Anonymous and confidential testing and counseling services to men and women at risk and their partners. Agency offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack 11. Special Transit Service This program provides public transportation to persons with disabilities who are unable to use the fixed-route service. This ADA compliant service is door-to-door with reservations required. Agency offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack 6. Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) Clinics Confidential services are available for teens and adults at risk of having an STD. Services include a medical evaluation, laboratory testing, treatment and partner referral and treatment (including medications). Agency offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack 12. Winnipesaukee Transit Service Operates flexible fixed route service between Laconia, Belmont, Tilton and Franklin. Door-to-door service is provided on an advance reservation basis along a fixed route corridor. Agency offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack 7. Tamworth Dental Center A modern dental practice offering full-service oral health care in a state of the art facility, using all new equipment, electronic records and digital x-rays. The practice accepts NH Healthy Kids and other insurance plans, and offer a reduced rate to low-income individuals who need services not covered by insurance. Agency offering this program: Tri-County D. Health 1. Health Insurance Counseling Education Assistance Service (HICEAS) A network of trained volunteers counselors who assist clients in understanding Medicare, Medicaid and other insurance bills or problems. Agencies offering this service: Southwestern Strafford Tri-County 8. Teen Clinic Walk-in clinics using a peer model providing access to reproductive health care, education and referral for teens. Agency offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack E. Housing 1. Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program CDBG grant-writing and administration on behalf of municipalities. For support of job creation activities with new and expanding businesses. Agency offering this program: Southwestern 2. Alzheimer’s Health Care Services Program offers support groups, resource library, training, home assessments and case management for caregivers and victims of Alzheimer's Disease and other dementias. Includes the only licensed medical adult day care facility in Coos County, offering a home away from home for clients and much-needed respite for caregivers. This is a Medicaid approved program. VA approval pending. Agency offering this program: Tri-County 2. Complete Family Workforce Housing Provides permanently affordable rental housing units to low and moderate income households. Tenants are screened and encouraged to participate in management 53 COMMUNITY ACTION PROGRAM INFORMATION (CONTINUED) of their buildings. Some units developed in partnership with several public and private agencies and lenders. Agencies offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack – 46 units in 3 communities Southwestern – 255 units located in 11 communities Belknap-Merrimack – 191 units in 5 communities Southern – 648 units in 11 communities Southwestern – 45 units in 2 communities Strafford – 26 units in 1 community 8. Elderly Housing (Tax Credit) These programs are developed in partnership with public and private agencies and lenders. Eligible projects receive federal income tax credits over a 10 year period based on the number of units targeted to seniors age 55 and older earning less than 50%-60% of the median area income, depending on certain factors. Agencies offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack – 77 units in 1 community Rockingham – 20 units in 1 community Southern – 20 units in 1 community Southwestern – 85 units in 3 communities 3. Housing Rehabilitation Programs Programs provide major rehabilitation of single family, owner-occupied homes, emphasizing health and safety related repairs to create decent, safe housing. HOME properties are brought up to HUD Section 8 quality standards. Programs incorporated into this description: All agencies – HOME Rehabilitation Program Belknap-Merrimack – Concord Heat Replacement Program Southwestern – Cheshire County Single Family Rehab Program 9. Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) Systems allow seniors or medically challenged individuals to live at home while being able to contact assistance through the touch of a "HELP" button. Agencies offering this service: Rockingham Southern Strafford 4. The Fixit Program Assists residents 60 years of age or older or individuals with disabilities with minor home repairs and maintenance provided by qualified volunteers. Agencies offering this service: Belknap-Merrimack Rockingham Southern Strafford 10. Security Deposit Loan Program Program provides loans for security deposits for those in need of affordable housing. May include advocacy, landlord tenant mediation, tenant education and counseling. Agencies offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack Rockingham Southwestern Strafford Tri-County 5. Special Needs Access Program The Fixit Program will consider projects such as temporary modular wheelchair ramps, emergency aluminum ramps, interior accessibility (doorways, bathrooms) roof repair and snow blowing. There are fees associated with this program. Agencies offering this service: Belknap-Merrimack Strafford 6. Rochester Rehab Program Provides repairs for moderate and low income families residing in mobile homes in Rochester. Renovations include roofs, electrical systems, septic systems, and general renovations to bring homes to Housing Quality Standards defined by HUD. Agency offering this program: Strafford 11. Rural Development Housing Preservation Grant This is an annual grant program designed to rehabilitate single family owner-occupied homes in selected rural NH communities. Agency offering this program: Southwestern Tri-County 12. Supportive Housing Single room apartments, supportive services and HUD Section 8 rent assistance programs for homeless men and women and housing for men with mental illness. Programs incorporated into this description: Southern – Mary’s House, 40 units for women - Robinson House, 24 units for men in recovery Strafford – 5 units for men diagnosed with mental illness 7. Elderly Housing (HUD 202) Rent-assisted supportive housing projects for lowincome elderly capable of independent living. Tenants pay 30% of their income, with the balance being subsidized. Projects totaling 783 units are located in 17 communities. Agencies offering this program: 54 COMMUNITY ACTION PROGRAM INFORMATION (CONTINUED) 13. Rochester Homeless Housing Initiative Program provides safe, affordable long-term housing and supportive services for homeless individuals with mental illness. Agency offering this program: Strafford Program is income based. All agencies offer this program F. Income Management 1. Electric Assistance Program (EAP) EAP provides qualifying utility customers with a percentage discount on their monthly electric bill, based on their household income. The program is designed to make electric bills affordable in times of need. All agencies offer this program 14. American Dream Home Program The New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority assists eligible (80% of median income) first-time home buyers with down payment. Agency performs the home inspections for NHHFA and the client statewide. Agency offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack 2. FAP Budget Counseling Assurance 16 This is a cost free budget planning service available to people to have received Fuel Assistance Program services during the current program year. This service assists people to establish a practical monthly spending and savings plan and helps them to identify possible impractical spending habits. People who complete the interview are granted a $75.00 credit to their oil heating company to be used to pay for a furnace cleaning. Agencies offering this service: Rockingham Southern Strafford 15. Homeless Shelters Transitional and emergency shelters for individuals and families. Most include case management, mental health and substance abuse counseling. Programs incorporated into this description: Southwestern – Monadnock Area Housing Coalition - Sullivan County Housing Coalition Tri-County – 10 Bricks Homeless Shelter - Tyler Blain House 16. Housing Futures Fund Program Statewide effort coordinated by NH Community Development Finance Authority to support housing development efforts that focus on workforce and affordable family housing. Agency offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack 3. Utility Energy Conservation Programs Utility-sponsored special energy conservation pro-grams to reduce energy usage and expenses by installation of energy efficiency measures in the homes of qualified residents. Programs incorporated into this description: All agencies – CORE Residential Conservation Program (Electric utilities) Belknap-Merrimack and Southern – KEYSPAN Energy Delivery Weatherization Program (Natural gas utility) Rockingham and Strafford – Partners-In-Energy (PIE) Residential Fuel Gas Conservation Program (Natural gas utility) Strafford – Northern Utilities 17. Purchase/Rehabilitation Program New Hampshire Housing assists eligible first-time home buyers who are required to have home repairs completed prior to the purchase of the home. This is a low-interest loan. Agency performs home inspections for NHHFA and clients statewide. Agency offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack 18. Rental Guarantee Program The Rental Guarantee Program assists homeless families in obtaining permanent housing by providing incentives to prospective landlords in the form of limited guarantees against loss due to damage or nonpayment of rent. Agency offering this program: Southwestern 4. Rochester CDBG, Dover CDBG augment existing WAP services to low-income Dover and Rochester households by providing energy conservation measures to reduce energy costs, to remove or correct health or safety hazards, to comply with applicable codes, and to improve the general living conditions of the residents. Agency offering this program: Strafford 19. Lead Paint Hazard Control Program A HUD-funded program to identify and control leadbased paint hazards in eligible privately owned housing. This 3 year program consists of grants made available to homeowners and landlords aimed at removing hazards from lead-based paint housing units. 5. Weatherization An energy conservation repair and improvement program to increase energy efficiency and improve living standards. Income-eligible owners and tenants may qualify. 55 COMMUNITY ACTION PROGRAM INFORMATION (CONTINUED) Belknap-Merrimack – NH Mediation Program Southwestern – Lake Sunapee Area Mediation Program Tri-County – Family Mediation Program 7. Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) RSVP provides critical linkages between the active 55+ volunteer and the community need. Program supports volunteers with training, mileage reim-bursement, insurance and recognition events. Agencies offering this service: Southern Tri-County Programs incorporated into this description: All agencies – Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) All agencies – Heating Repair/Replacement Project (HRRP) Strafford – Supplemental Energy CDBG G. Linkages 1. Area Outreach Centers An important link in the Association’s system of providing services and activities through a permanent outreach and intake structure. Each center provides individualized programs based on the community’s needs. All agencies offer this program 8. Senior Companion Program Companion volunteers regularly visit peers who are socially isolated due to physical or emotional frailties. Senior Companions assist with simple chores, provide transportation, offer information, and most importantly, keep the visitee connected to their community through consistent social contact. The primary purpose of their visit is to encourage independence and improve the quality of life of both the frail elder and the senior companion. Agencies offering this service: Belknap-Merrimack Tri-County 2. Thresholds and Decisions Critical thinking and decision-making course delivered to inmates of county jail by trained volunteers designed to reduce the recidivism rate. Agency offering this program: Southern 3. Central New Hampshire Transportation Brokerage CNHT is a shared ride system offering door to door nonemergency service for individuals who are unable to access existing fixed route transportation. Agency offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack 9. ServiceLink An information and supported referral service to answer questions and connect seniors and those with disabilities to services that support healthy and independent living. Programs incorporated into this description: Belknap-Merrimack – Merrimack County ServiceLink Southwestern – Sullivan County ServiceLink Tri-County – Coos County ServiceLink 4. Public Transportation There are fixed route transportation services in some areas, and door to door service to people of all ages for court-ordered and other appointments, medical care, school, or recreational sites. Programs incorporated into this description: Belknap-Merrimack – Concord Area Transit Tri-County – North Country Transportation - Long Distance Medical Transportation 10. Seniors Count Project is aimed at assisting frail and at-risk indigent women in Manchester to remain in their homes living independently for as long as possible through use of a more person-centered volunteerism model. Individual volunteers are matched with seniors in need and develop a one-on-one relationship. The project is funded by the Mary Gale Foundation. Agency offering this program: Southern 5. Rural Transportation Services Providing door to door, demand-response senior transit services, with most locations including wheelchair liftequipped vehicles. Programs incorporated into this description: Belknap-Merrimack – Rural Transportation Services Southern – Rural Transportation Strafford – Elderly Transportation Program 11. Family Support Services Programs provide family support by mobilizing community resources needed to stabilize difficult family living situations and promote family strengths and selfsufficiency. Helps families to understand and navigate the social service system, connecting them with needed community resources, and may involve advocacy and transportation. 6. Mediation Services Family members are brought together to resolve parent/child or wife/husband conflicts and to produce solutions that are acceptable and beneficial to those involved. Conflict resolution training may be included. Programs incorporated into this description: 56 COMMUNITY ACTION PROGRAM INFORMATION (CONTINUED) families in need of services, and/or recruitment/training of providers. May include workshops for parents, and workshops and technical assistance to child care providers and other early childhood educators. Agencies offering this program: Rockingham Southern Programs incorporated into this description: Rockingham – WIC Family Support Project Southern – Family Support Services 12. The Support Center at Burch House Provides court advocacy, crisis intervention, a 24 hour crisis line, shelter and a range of supports and referrals to victims of domestic and sexual violence in northern Grafton County. Also offers extensive violence prevention programs for area schools, professionals and community groups. Agency offering this program: Tri-County 20. Senior Centers Centers promote independence and well-being through a healthy, active lifestyle, enrichment programs, volunteer opportunities, community integration projects, seminars, nutritional services and senior transportation services throughout Belknap and Merrimack counties. Agency offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack 13. North Country Senior Wheels Provides fixed route and door to door accessible transportation to Coos County seniors. Agency offering this program: Tri-County 21. Carroll County Collaborative The Carroll County Collaborative mission is to create and facilitate dynamic responses to the needs of the citizens of Carroll County, through the utilization of a collaborative social justice model designed to maximize existing assets within the region. Agency offering this program: Tri-County 14. Volunteer Transportation Volunteers provide transportation for elderly clients for health-related appointments within Strafford County. Clients call a week in advance to arrange for the service. Agency offering this program: Strafford 22. Economic and Community Development The Economic and Community Development team works with local communities on local development issues and helps to support and increase the selfsufficiency potential in the region. Agency offering this program: Tri-County 15. Elderly Transportation Provides transportation for senior citizens by van for shopping and other activities on a weekly scheduled route, covering various towns in Strafford County. Agency offering this program: Strafford H. Nutrition 16. Carroll County Restorative Justice Center The Center offers an expanded array of services for youth and adults that help address issues specific to each of the offender, the victim, and the com-munity at large. Agency offering this program: Tri-County 1. The Breastfeeding Connection – WIC Project provides highly trained lactation counseling services as well as breastpumps, information, and other accessories to meet the nursing needs of mothers and infants. Services are free to pregnant and breastfeeding women participating in RCA’s WIC and CSF programs. Agency offering this program: Rockingham 17. Granite State Guardianship Services Provides high quality guardianship, protective and fiduciary services to incapacitated residents of New Hampshire. Agency offering this program: Tri-County 2. Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) Family child care providers supply nutritious meals and snacks to children in their homes. The CACFP provides reimbursement for a significant portion of the costs of providing these meals. Agencies offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack Rockingham Southern Southwestern 18. Economic Opportunity Center Center provides a platform for programming and services designed to enhance economic stability of individuals and the community. Current services offered include Workplace Success, Community Work Experience, Families @ Work and Pathways. Agency offering this program: Southern 3. Commodity Supplemental Food Program Provides nutritious food packages and nutrition education materials to income-eligible senior citizens 60 19. Child Care Resource and Referral Program involves referrals to child care providers for 57 COMMUNITY ACTION PROGRAM INFORMATION (CONTINUED) and older, pregnant and postpartum women, and children up to age 6. All agencies offer this program Program provides daily lunches and/or breakfast or supper, depending on the location, to low-income youth during the summer months when meals at schools are not available. Agencies offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack Southern Strafford 4. Community Gardens Program makes garden plots available to income-eligible households, and also provides free seeds educational programs and nutritional information. Agency offering this program: Southern 11. Fresh Fruits and Vegetable Program Provides a monthly distribution of fresh fruits and vegetables to low income women, children and seniors in Hillsborough County participating in CSFP. Agency offering this program: Southern 5. Congregate Dining Community dining experience for persons 60 and older. Nutritious midday meal with fellowship and wellness programs. Agencies offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack North Country Senior Meals – Tri-County 12. Holiday Gift & Food Baskets Provide households with donated food, clothing, personal items and toys for families during the holidays not served by other organizations. Agencies offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack Rockingham 6. Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program WIC and CSFP participants are provided coupons for use at area Farmers’ Markets to purchase fresh vegetables and fruit. Coupons are issued at no cost to participants, and may be used in place of cash at the markets. Agencies offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack Southern Southwestern I. Self-Sufficiency 1. Child Care Programs support children and families by providing access to quality, affordable, full day full year child care services, and may include home visits, health and nutrition screenings. Agencies offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack Southern Strafford 7. Meals on Wheels Home delivered meal program, typically 5 days per week. Includes personal contact, emergency proto-cols and information dissemination. Agencies offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack Strafford 2. English for Speakers of Other Languages Classroom-based English language instruction in the areas of speaking, listening, reading and writing is offered to immigrants, refugees and others whose English skills are limited or non-existent. Agencies offering this program: Rockingham Southern 8. The Emergency Food Assistance Program Program provides food assistance to families in need through distribution of USDA commodities and other donated food items. CAA’s coordinate efforts through statewide network of food pantries, soup kitchens and other emergency food providers. All agencies offer this program 3. Friendship House The 28-day Residential Treatment Program is intended to provide a chemically dependent individual with the fundamental tools of recovery. This program includes educational classes, group counseling, individual counseling, work and recreational therapy and attendance at in-house and community AA/NA meetings. Agency offering this program: Tri-County 9. Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Provides supplemental nutritious foods, nutrition education, breast feeding support, and health care screening/referrals to pregnant women, nursing mothers, infants and children up to age 5. Agencies offering this program: Belknap-Merrimack Rockingham Southern Southwestern 10. Summer Youth Feeding Program 4. Impaired Driver Intervention Program (IDIP) A 20 hour program for those convicted of a DWI first offense with no other DWI convictions in any other state in the last seven years. Also offered on weekends 58 COMMUNITY ACTION PROGRAM INFORMATION (CONTINUED) Weekend Impaired Driver Intervention Program (WIDIP) - in Berlin and Woodsville. Agency offering this program: Tri-County social experiences to reinforce positive life choices and develop a deeper sense of respect, community and understanding. Agency offering this program: Southern 5. Eileen Phinney Multi-Cultural Center Provides a variety of services and offers programs for refugees and immigrants of all nationalities to assist them in acclimating to life in the US and empowering them to function more independently. Agency offering this program: Southern 12. Cultivating Community Agricultural Program Refugees receive assistance in developing the skills and acquiring the resources to develop farm-based enterprises, which in turn provide fresh produce for the community while helping to sustain the work of the farmers. Agency offering this program: Southern 6. North Peterborough Family Program A collaborative program designed to reduce risk factors and enhance protective factors of the children and families in low-income housing units in Peterborough. Agency offering this program: Southern 13. Ethnic Community Self-Help Program Members of the Somali Bantu refugee community work with other Bantus as well as the broader refugee population to develop the skills necessary to successfully integrate into American society, in addition to helping them find employment and resources necessary for self-sufficiency. Agency offering this program: Southern 7. Outpatient Alcohol and Drug Counseling Services This is a community service for individuals of all ages who have a problem with substance abuse. Services are available in Woodsville or Berlin. Agency offering this program: Tri-County 14. Pre-Placement Program Program provides stabilization substance abuse services to clients involved in the criminal justice system while they are waiting for admission to a sub-stance abuse treatment program. Agency offering this program: Southern 8. Phase II Program An intensive seven-day and night residential pro-gram for individuals convicted of more than one DWI first offense in any state in the last seven years. Focus is on alcohol and other drug education, group interaction as well as individual assessment and evaluation by a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. Agency offering this program: Tri-County 9. Self-Sufficiency Case Management Program A Self-Sufficiency Case Manger works intensively with low-income families to address key issues and provide supportive services to overcome barriers to the attainment of self-sufficiency. Agency offering this program: Strafford 10. Step One Crisis Intervention/Sobriety Maintenance Center This is a three-phase facility that focuses on assisting the alcoholic/addicted person on the road to recovery. The three phases of the in-patient facility are Crisis Intervention, Sobriety Maintenance, and Assessment and Referral to appropriate treatment facilities. Agency offering this program: Tri-County 11. B.R.I.N.G.I.T!!! (Bringing Refugees Immigrants and Neighbors Gently Into Tomorrow) Children in the Manchester School District grades 4 through 12 participate in recreational, academic, and 59 AGENCY CONTACTS Community Action Program Belknap-Merrimack Counties, Inc. Ralph Littlefield, Executive Director (603) 225-3295 rlittlefield@bm-cap.org Rockingham County Community Action Program Tom Nelson, Executive Administrator (603) 431-2911 tnelson@rcaction.org Southern New Hampshire Services, Inc. Gail Hennessy, Executive Director (603) 668-8010 gale@snhs.org Southwestern Community Services, Inc. William Marcello, Chief Executive Officer (603) 352-7512 bmarcello@scshelps.org Strafford County Community Action Committee, Inc. Betsy Andrews Parker, Executive Director (603) 516-8130 bandrewparker@co.strafford.nh.us Tri-County Community Action Lawrence Kelly, Executive Director (603) 752-7001 lkelly@tccap.org