January 22, 2015 — “Governor Cuomo’s State of the State address touched upon many important themes such as economic opportunity, education, and investing in New York State’s infrastructure. We at FPWA are especially pleased with the Governor’s Anti-Poverty Opportunity Agenda, a ten point plan to combat poverty and fight inequality. While the economy slowly recovers from the Great Recession, thousands of New Yorkers continue to struggle with hunger, homelessness and unemployment. The Governor’s plan takes a multi-issue approach to combating poverty by combining proven anti-poverty policies, an approach we’ve shared with the Governor’s staff in recent meetings.
We applaud the Governor for the creation of the Office of Faith-Based Community Development Services, and the appointment of State Assembly Member Karim Camara as head of this division. Faith-based institutions have historically been at the center of responding to human needs, and often provide the first line of assistance to those in need. As an organization with faith-based roots that works to strengthen faith-based leaders, we are thrilled that the Governor has made funding and technical assistance available through this office to better serve communities across the State.
While the Governor’s ten point plan to combat poverty is a significant step in the right direction, we strongly support a $15.00 minimum wage for New York City where the cost of living is unstable and unattainable for millions of residents.
We also urge the Governor to dedicate a portion of the $5.4 billion surplus to support a jobs program for both the unemployed and those with barriers to employment. Investments in jobs programs and training are essential to lifting people out of poverty, and helping them to obtain upward mobility.
We are troubled by the cuts to human services and public health in the current fiscal budget — a total of $404.7 million in cuts. New Yorkers across this state struggle on a daily basis to provide food for their families and make ends meet. Families rely on these vital services. If we are a state truly concerned with the prosperity of all its residents, it’s critical we continue to provide services that help the most vulnerable achieve economic equity.”
