CIRCLEVILLE, OHIO (May 1, 2024) – The Pickaway County Community Action Organization (PICCA) is marking Community Action Month in May, honoring the 60th anniversary of federal legislation that established a network of non-profit agencies to combat poverty in the United States.
As a proud member of the National Community Action Partnership, PICCA stands alongside over 1,000 local agencies and state associations, dedicated to forging pathways out of poverty and fostering community resilience.
“PICCA stands at the forefront of the battle against poverty in Pickaway County,” affirmed Executive Director Becky Hammond. “Each day, we strive to uplift our families, friends, and neighbors, providing essential services to enhance their quality of life.”
PICCA’s comprehensive range of services is unparalleled, encompassing transitional and affordable housing, rental and utility assistance, home repair and weatherization, early childhood education through Head Start and Early Head Start programs, job training, employment assistance, and access to free transportation and fresh produce, Hammond emphasized.
The “War on Poverty,” an initiative unofficially named as such, was launched on January 8, 1964, by President Lyndon B. Johnson during his State of the Union address. At the time of its inception, the national poverty rate hovered around 20 percent. The legislation established the Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO) to administer federal funds aimed at eradicating poverty, spawning the creation of community action organizations nationwide.
PICCA, serving Pickaway County since 1965, stands as a testament to the enduring commitment to uplift communities and alleviate economic hardship.
Community action organizations primarily rely on Community Services Block Grants (CSBG) for funding, supplemented by federal and local grants as well as donations. These resources fuel vital programs operated by PICCA and similar entities, empowering individuals and families to overcome socioeconomic barriers and achieve self-sufficiency.
As Community Action Month unfolds, PICCA reaffirms its dedication to serving the community and championing the fight against poverty, embodying the spirit of compassion and resilience that defines the essence of community action.
