The Erie County Legislature recently approved more than $1.6 million dollars to support poverty-fighting initiatives in Erie County. The Erie County Poverty Committee identified organizations that will benefit from the funding and divided the money among groups based on a scoring system. Funds will go toward facility upgrades, transportation, housing initiatives, workplace development, and more.

The following groups will receive funding:

• Rural Outreach Center - $70,034
• Say Yes Buffalo Scholarships, Inc. - $39,000
• EPIC – Every Person Influences Children - $250,000
• Rental Assistance Corp. - $37,500
• Homespace Corp. - $102,753
• Response to Love - $59,117
• Watermark Wesleyan Church/Trading Post - $63,480
• Western New York Women’s Foundation - $34,549.24
• Compeer West - $96,693
• Karen Society of Buffalo - $49,940
• Neighborhood Legal Services - $145,048
• Boys & Girls Clubs of the Northtowns - $84,500
• Peace of the City - $72,558
• Center for Elder Law & Justice - $89,600
• Cornell in Buffalo - $50,000
• Home Headquarters - $400,000

Legislator Lorigo said, “Poverty is a widespread issue throughout Erie County. I am happy we are working together to address this issue and allocate funding to groups that serve both rural and urban areas. The Rural Outreach Center, located in my legislative district, has done incredible work to help those in need. This funding will be of great assistance to them as well as other organizations throughout Erie County.”

Legislator Rath said, “This funding will help those organizations making in difference in many lives. Poverty continues to affect many families throughout Erie County. We must continue working together to fight this issue and secure the appropriate funding to help those in need.”

Legislator Mills said, “This $1.6 million in funds will go a long way toward helping people of all ages who are dealing with difficult situations. It is important to make sure the groups fighting poverty are given enough resources to continue the work they are doing.”

Legislator Dixon said, “Unfortunately, poverty touches every corner of Erie County. The organizations on the front lines of fighting this issue need as much help as they can get. I am proud to support these additional funds that will ultimately help those in our community who are struggling.”