RECAP Presents Social Impact: The Work of Community Action Agencies

Press conference brings light to community partnerships

Middletown – In cooperation with other community agencies and organizations, today we presented to the media the area’s 2015 poverty statistics and what the numbers show about Orange County. Social Impact: The Work of Community Action Agencies, held this morning at the Mill at Middletown site, featured speeches by our CEO Charles Quinn, COO Michele McKeon, RSS Program Director Nolly Climes, RECAP Board President John Cappello, Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus, Laurie Tautel representing Assembly member James Skoufis, and Orange County Chamber President & CEO Lynn Cione.

The statistics are from the New York State Community Action Association (NYSCAA). Generated from census data, the report outlines State, County and City poverty levels as they relate to categories such as employment, race, health, gender and more. The report, published annually, is designed to be a comprehensive resource for New York’s Community Action Agencies, community-based organizations, policy makers, advocates, community coalitions and the general public. This report does not offer policy recommendations; rather, the intent is to serve as an informational source that adds value to the larger dialogue on how to address poverty in communities across our state.

“Overall the poverty rate in Orange County decreased from 13.3% to 12.6% and equates to almost 2,400 individuals.  While we acknowledge there is more work to be done, we live in a community where state, County and local officials, with their not-for-profit partners, work every day to serve those most vulnerable in our communities,” said McKeon.

Within Orange County, 19.7% of children live in poverty and 42% are enrolled in a free/reduced lunch program. The living wage for a 1 adult, 1 child household is $26.23. The complete report can be downloaded from  NYSCAA’s website at www.nyscommunityaction.org

The decline in the County’s poverty rate is a testament to the County’s commitment to working with the community’s most vulnerable populations. Hot drinks were served and copies of the report were available to attendees.