Covering 1,065 agencies in 99 percent of U.S. counties, community action programs last year provided critical supports to 20.7 million Americans facing an array of challenges ranging from extreme poverty and disability to the lack of employment. Nationally, the community service block grants (CSBG) budget is $680 million, with Massachusetts receiving $17 million that is designated to 24 community action programs.
Rep. Markey continues to be a leader in the preservation of these anti-poverty programs. In May 2011, Rep. Markey led letter to the House Committee on Appropriations signed by 84 Members of Congress in support of maintaining funding for CSBG.