Community Action Month observed

Observing 49 Years of Community Action Service to St. Mary/Vermilion Parishes
On Aug. 20, 1964 President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Economic Opportunity Act which created a variety of programs, including Community Action Agencies, as part of his War on Poverty.
Johnson believed that the war against poverty must be won in the field, in every private home, in every public office from the courthouse to the White House.
St. Mary/Vermilion CAA was established in 1967 to wage the war on poverty in St. Mary Parish, and later in 2001, in Vermilion Parish, by promoting self-sufficiency for those of limited income, ensuring that all residents are able to live in dignity; by implementing innovative and cost-effective programs to improve the lives and living conditions of the impoverished; by providing support and instruction for everyone in need of assistance; and by being a major voice of reason in establishing welfare system reforms.
“Community Action Month is a wonderful time to honor and celebrate the impact Community Action Agencies have in the lives of families and communities across the country,” Community Action CEO Almetra J. Franklin said. “Agencies are successful every day in helping families achieve economic security. Given that the needs of each family and community are unique, Community Action Agencies are able to use a range of resources and programs to meet local needs in creative and impactful ways.”
St. Mary/Vermilion CAA helps countless individuals improve their lives each year by providing them essential services and life-changing opportunities through financial education and job training as well as making available affordable housing, economic development, natural disaster relief and recovery, health care, energy assistance and more.
Despite experiencing budget cuts, shrinking resources, and increased demands for services during these challenging economic times, St. Mary/Vermilion CAA has been successful assisting the low-income veterans, senior citizens, families, children, students and others in St. Mary and Vermilion Parishes to achieve and maintain economic security.
“Our staff is committed to their task of replacing disadvantages with opportunities because it is right, because it is wise, and because, in our hearts and minds we believe it is possible to conquer poverty in our lifetime,” Franklin said.
St. Mary/Vermilion CAA will host various events and activities throughout the month of May to commemorate Community Action Month.