Promising programs to serve low-income families in poverty neighborhoods.
This review of promising programs to address the challenges facing low-income families living in distressed neighborhoods reveals three key themes: (1) Earnings and asset development programs are used to increase the economic self-sufficiency of low-income families and include: place-based employment programs, a focus on good jobs, the use of work incentives, programs that promote banking, car and home ownership, and the use of the Earned Income Tax Credit; (2) Family strengthening programs are used to improve health and educational outcomes, as well as link families to needed support and benefit services and include: nurse home visitation, parenting education, early childhood educational programs, and facilitating the receipt of support services; and (3) Neighborhood strengthening programs are used to improve features of the neighborhood, collaboration among service providers, and resident involvement in neighborhood affairs and include: the use of community development corporations, comprehensive community initiatives and community organizing strategies.
Austin
Michael J
MJ
Research Response Team, Bay Area Social Services Consortium, Center for Social Services Research, School of Social Welfare, University of California, Berkeley, USA.
Lemon
Kathy
K
D005190:Family; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D011203:Poverty; D012111:Residence Characteristics; D012946:Social Welfare