United Ways of the Pacific Northwest
2017 LEGISLATIVE AGENDA
Approved 11/17/2016
211 in the Pacific Northwest
Vulnerable people need an easy non-bureaucratic/one stop shop mechanism to connect with faith-based, nonprofit and public resources to address basic needs before they become costly emergencies. The 2-1-1 website and hotline connect people with a comprehensive database of available health and human services needed during difficult times.
Housing, food & basic needs
Access to safe and affordable housing connected to other services such as transit and child care will expand access to jobs and education for working families. An increased supply of affordable housing with state investment is necessary to achieve this. Increases access for children and families to a safe, secure and affordable food supply is equally necessary.
- Support Breakfast after the Bell
- Support $200 million capital request for Housing Trust Fund
- Support eliminating sunset on recording fees, and increase revenue from the fees. Support outlawing “source of income” discrimination in rental housing for low income tenants
Education and early learning
When our children lack access to high quality, affordable care and education before they go to kindergarten, they can fall behind, and some children who fall behind early never catch up. Early investment can help prevent future burden on the education system and other social service systems.
- Support expanding access to high-quality prekindergarten (ECEAP)
- Support investing in higher quality Working Connections Child Care
- Support Parents as their child’s first teacher. Sustain/ expand home visiting; enact paid family and medical leave.
Financial stability
Strategies designed to protect and grow living wage jobs, establish savings and provide training & education for career advancement along with earned income and childcare tax credits will build on the Pacific Northwest’s traditional economic strengths.
- Support funding the Working Families Tax Credit
- Support restoration of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Grant
United Ways of the Pacific Northwest (UWPNW) is the regional trade association for 39 local United Ways in Washington, Oregon and Idaho. United Ways in the Pacific Northwest are committed to improving lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities to advance the common good in the areas of education, income and health. United Ways of the Pacific Northwest and local United Ways believe that to keep our communities strong, we need to prioritize services to help vulnerable populations, notably children and seniors.