Office of the Mayor

Proclamation

Lawrence, Kansas

WHEREAS:   Community Action Agencies were created when the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 was signed into law; and

WHEREAS:   The East Central Kansas Economic Opportunity Corporation (ECKAN) was established in 1966; and

WHEREAS:   ECKAN has a 50-plus year history of promoting self-sufficiency for the limited income individuals and families who live in Douglas County; and

WHEREAS:   ECKAN has made essential contributions to individuals and families in Douglas County by providing them with innovative and cost-effective programs such as Early Head Start, Back-to-School Supplies, and the Christmas Bureau; and

WHEREAS:   Community Action Agencies are needed as major participants in the reform of the welfare system as we know it; and

WHEREAS:   Individuals and families on limited income continue to need opportunities to improve their lives and their living conditions, thus ensuring that all citizens are able to live in dignity; and

WHEREAS:   The poverty rate in Douglas County is nineteen percent and there are 21,721 individuals that meet the Federal poverty guidelines.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Lisa Larsen, Mayor of the City of Lawrence, Kansas, do hereby proclaim May 2019 as

“community action month”

in Lawrence and Douglas County.

                                                          Lisa Larsen, Mayor

May 14, 2019