1999 Basic Needs Assessment


 

The Basic Needs Delivery System

While this assessment has narrowed the definition of "basic needs" to food, clothing and shelter, the system to meet these needs remains large (in terms of the number of providers) and diverse. This support reaches persons in need through a loosely connected network of public and private providers including State and local governmental agencies, local non-profit organizations, and area congregations.faith based organizations. The Community Action Network is working to compile a resource list of basic needs providers that will be made available in the near future.

According to these providers, certain population groups remain under-served and/or un-served by social service agencies that provide basic needs services. Community focus groups have identified the following as populations that are under-served by the current system:

  • Working poor/ underemployed
  • Elderly persons
  • Homeless persons
  • Single parents
  • People with mental health or substance abuse problems
  • Undocumented residents
  • Impoverished rural communities in the county

Service providers have also seen increases in the immigrant (primarily Spanish-speaking) population, and an overall increase in the number of persons seeking assistance.

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