Erie County is pushing a new $12.5 million plan to fight poverty in Buffalo.
County Executive Mark Poloncarz wants to use state funding to support specialized programming for 600 families through the Community Action Organization of New York.
Program components include life coaches, career coaches, financial literacy services, linkage to support and resources and direct cash incentives of up to $16,000.
“Reducing poverty helps families with children live better, healthier and more productive lives,” Poloncarz said. “This critical funding will allow eligible families to gain access to the support and services they need to gain new skills, improve their financial literacy, and build towards a brighter future.”
Those households would first need to be deemed eligible by county social services.
“We plan to serve 600 families in this pilot program that provides economic mobility opportunities through upskilling, access to training, financial incentives, workforce development, and coaching,” said Community Action Organization of WNY President & CEO Dr. Marie A. Cannon.