Community Needs Assessment for Program year 2023-2024
A. Comprehensive Community Needs Assessment was conducted from July 1, 2022, through March 22, 2023, by staff of the organization in conjunction with the Community Services Block (CSBG) requirements and as a resource for CKCAC, and other collaborative partners, to ascertain critical needs in the CKCAC service area, as identified by community members, consumers, stakeholders, and service providers, to enable CKCAC to continue adapting programs and services to best meet community needs.
Findings from this assessment will be used to assist Central Kentucky Community Action Council, Inc. to continue to deliver high quality services and promote the National Community Action Network Theory of Change Goals:
Individuals and families with low incomes are stable and achieve economic security.
Communities where people with low incomes live are healthy and offer economic opportunity.
People with low incomes are engaged and active in building opportunities in communities.
Multiple sources of quantitative and qualitative data were utilized to develop as clear a picture as possible on regarding the health, wellbeing, and self-sufficiency of our area. Quantitative data was primarily mined through the CARES Engagement Network platform, an online depository for demographic information from available standardize data resources located at https://cap.engagementnetwork.org Labor Market Information Report Library – KYSTATS
Qualitative data was collected in the form of a survey of clients, consumers, stakeholders, employees, community leaders, faith-based representatives, elected officials, and board members of the Central Kentucky Community Action Council, Inc. CSBG service area. Surveys were collected between July 1, 2022, and March 22, 2023, in both written and online formats. The survey was accessible online via Survey Monkey via the CKCAC website, Social Media Facebook and under the Community Needs Assessment link located at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/TLDLGMN-CNA, and maintained by Community Action Kentucky (CAK), a statewide association representing and assisting the 23 community action agencies throughout the Commonwealth.
Qualitative data is usually gathered through the hosting of 8 community meetings throughout the region. This was completed in 2 of the counties. Willingness to meet in public is recovering from the COVID 19 Pandemic. Community partners and community members of each county were asked about the thoughts of need in the communities and to complete the survey.
The research, analysis and writing of this Community Needs Assessment was performed,
under the direction of Ellen B. Leake, CCAP-NCRI, CSBG/HEAP Director-Agency Operations Officer for CKCAC.
Needs Assessment Survey Forms completed by clients or interested persons – 810 were returned and/or completed online and calculated. The analyzed data generated is used for prioritizing the CSBG Work Plan.
Listed below are the responses from the Central Kentucky Community Action Council, Inc. CSBG service counties:
| In which county do you live or represent (for the agency)? | ||
| Answer Choices | Responses | |
| Breckinridge | 15.68% | 127 |
| Grayson | 5.19% | 42 |
| Hardin | 14.81% | 120 |
| Larue | 5.6% | 41 |
| Marion | 8.40% | 68 |
| Meade | 19.38% | 157 |
| Nelson | 7.9% | 64 |
| Washington | 23.58% | 191 |
| Answered | 810 |
| Answer Choices | Responses | |
| Employment | 71.60% | 580 |
| Education | 55.31% | 448 |
| Income and Asset Building | 35.43% | 287 |
| Housing | 60.25% | 488 |
| Health | 38.40% | 311 |
| Civic Engagement | 8.27% | 67 |
| Support Services (supporting multiple domains) | 30.74% | 249 |
| Answered | 810 | |
Listed above are the primary concerns that emerged from survey responses, which will be analyzed more thoroughly later in this report:
Note:
Responses from several survey questions combine to form an aggregate category of need. In addition, Support Services support many multiple domains including family services, case management, and emergency services (emergency food, clothing, utility assistance, and other areas of basic needs).
C. Collaborative Efforts
There is a strong community service network in our area working to remove the obstacles and solve problems that block the achievement of self-sufficiency. By close contact and knowing what each agency has to offer families of low income, the entire network can provide information and referral, to obtain the best service from the resources available, without duplication.
D. Community Strengths For example, we work with the Kentucky Career Center, Department of Employment Services, and temporary job placement agencies to help our clients get jobs training and placement. We provide on-the-job training to several clients in our county offices. This Agency also operates the Kentucky Works program; assisting K-TAP recipients obtain Job Readiness Skills and employment. The job experience and counseling services they receive are invaluable when these workers venture out to new employment. Other community strengths include an excellent road system that includes I65, the Western KY Parkway, the Bluegrass Parkway, and many other major highways. Elizabethtown Community and Technical College sits in the center of our service area. The main Campus is in Elizabethtown and a satellite campus in Springfield, KY. Branches of Western KY University and Campbellsville College are located in Elizabethtown and Lebanon. Tourism provides employment opportunities and financial benefits to the community.
ii. Describe activities designed to assist low-income participants including the elderly poor.
1. To secure and retain meaningful employment: Central Kentucky Community Action Council, Inc. CSBG Staff works with clients to secure and retain employment. This area is addressed in ROMA – a client is “unemployed and obtain a job.” We assist with the job search. We refer to employment programs such as Workforce Investment. Staff members assist clients in overcoming obstacles to employment such as day care, clothing, and emergency assistance. Employment assistance funds are available. Staff members follow up on clients to help with any problems that may arise that would jeopardize job retention. The Agency works with the Experience Works Program, School to Work, Kentucky Career Center and Kentucky Works as a host agency, providing job-training opportunities. There are Experience Works and School to Work workers placed in our county offices for job training. These workers are a big help to us, they answer the telephone, file, and in some cases take applications for LIHEAP. We also assist with recruitment for Experience Works Senior Program. CSBG works with the Agency Senior Companion Program and the Retired Senior Volunteer Program to reach out to the Senior Citizens in our service area. In answer to recent Needs Assessment data, this Agency continues to contract with the Cabinet to operate the Kentucky Works Program in our eight county service area and an additional nine Counties. This program provides job training sites, job placement both subsidized and unsubsidized, and Job Readiness Activities for K-TAP recipients that have been referred to this component by Case Managers from the Cabinet for Health and Family Services. Funds are available to assist with the cost of transportation to work, clothing required for work, and shoes. 2. To obtain and maintain adequate housing and suitable living environment (prevent homelessness: Community Service Coordinators work closely with Public Housing, Section 8, Income Based Housing, and the Weatherization Program to assist our clients with housing needs. We assist with the Housing Search for affordable rental housing. We assist in completing applications for other programs, including the Section 8 rental assistance program and Weatherization. The Community Services Program Director actively seeks additional funding to address the needs of the homeless and to prevent homelessness. (Below) Staff members coordinate with the Elderly Housing Complexes – completing LIHEAP applications on-site as a special service for seniors. Staff members advocate for the need of more affordable rental housing in our area.
3. To attain an adequate education: We, as an Agency that works to help people help themselves, know that education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty. We emphasize the need for education and refer clients to adult education and literacy programs. Our area has excellent facilities offering these programs. We offer assistance with fees and transportation for GED Testing, along with College Scholarships to graduating seniors and GED recipients. CSBG funds are used to purchase books and school supplies. CSBG funds also assist through Employment Support, with the cost of computer classes, Certified Nurse Aid Training Classes, or other programs that will assist with job acquisition or retention. We track the progress of our clients in educational programs through ROMA and help them achieve their educational goals. We provide a list of age appropriate children to the Head Start Program in December and in April of each year. CSBG Coordinators work with the 4 H, Sheriffs Camp and other camps to pay the camp fee for low-income children. We sponsor low-income kids for school field trips, day camps, swimming lessons, sports equipment, Louisville Zoo passes (Family) and a wide range of other educational activities and opportunities. If needed we provide school supplies, and clothing or uniforms for youngsters.
4. To provide on an emergency basis for the provision of goods or services, health care and related services, as may be needed to assure good health care. We will continue to offer assistance with health transportation, as needed either using Community Action Transportation Services or gas vouchers for medical appointments. Families are referred to the application process for the free or reduced cost prescription drug programs. CSBG staff works in collaboration with Seniors Saving Medicare. We expect that hundreds of senior citizens will receive free name brand medication from the big Drug Companies through this collaboration. CSBG Staff members refer to the Senior Companion Program. This program matches low-income seniors with persons who need limited assistance with activities of daily living, to remain in their homes. Staff members make calls to CHFS to find out “why” the passport card has not been approved. This advocacy helps speed up the process. Assistance is provided with scheduling appointments in some cases. Information is provided on programs such as KCHIP, Medicaid and Medicare. We assist families with applications for free vision care and refer to the Dental School for free or reduced cost dental care. Health care items, such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, laundry soap etc. are available in our county offices for families that need them.
5. To make better use of available income: Our staff is qualified to provide training on budget management for our clients. In all cases in which financial assistance is to be provided, the case- worker must “run the budget” for the family in CASTiNET. This budget page gives a clear breakdown of where the money goes and is enlightening to many clients. Clients may be required to attend Budget Classes before additional financial assistance is provided. 13,045 families received assistance through our county offices during the LIHEAP Programs. This assistance with the cost of home heating allowed the families to free up funds that would have been used for this purpose. We provide information to these families to help them conserve energy. We target Senior Citizen Centers and Housing when advertising LIHEAP, and Staff members call our elderly clients to remind them of LIHEAP. We complete LIHEAP applications by phone for our elderly clients and offer the early registration to those on fixed income. Notices are also distributed through Head Start Centers and sent to each grade school. We provide Christmas baskets for the elderly in several counties, allowing them to stretch their income. LIHWAP water assistance was added this year.
In many of our counties, furniture and household items are available to allow families to stretch their dollars. We have agreements with Goodwill to allow our clients to shop, along with free clothing banks in many of our counties. We address other areas of potential income, including child support when applicable, SNAP-“why haven’t you applied?” Our staff is very involved with community Holiday Programs; helping hundreds of families stretch their monthly incomes at this important time of year. We assist our clients in accessing other mainstream resources.
6. To obtain emergency services: We also provide emergency financial assistance for families, using CSBG funds, Match donations, Ministerial Association, local Churches, Salvation Army, Wintercare and Winterhelp and Untied Way Grants for rental and utility assistance. During the 2022-2023 LIHEAP Subsidy Season, we processed 3,281 applications for 3,281 unduplicated families, with $416,371.00 in benefits. LIHEAP Crisis, Season we processed 4,242 applications for 2,890 unduplicated families, with $953,247.65in benefits. We work with families to develop strategies to avoid future emergencies. On site, Emergency Food Banks are in two of our offices. We collaborate with Emergency Food Banks in other counties. Homelessness needs are met through two shelters in Hardin County, A Night at the Inn and Nelson County offers overnight accommodation in participating churches. CKCAC is also able to refer to shelters outside our area. Referrals are made to Employment Services to assist families in emergency situations.
To provide nutritious supplies or services that may be needed to counteract condition of starvation and malnutrition Each of the County CSBG Coordinators either operates an emergency food bank or screens the applicants for the area food banks for eligibility. Each Coordinator can provide immediate nutritional assistance in an emergency, and prompt assistance in non-emergency instances. For the past 5 years, the Agency has collaborated with the USDA and America’s Second Harvest of the Heartland to operate the CFSP (Senior Commodities Program) in six of our counties serving over 600 seniors. At monthly Commodity distributions we are able to distribute additional food items to low-income individuals in conjunction with Feeding America Second Harvest. The food items vary and during summer months farmers donate the not perfect vegetables. In collaboration with Feeding America of Kentucky’s Heartland and other services providers in our communities, the Agency has implemented the Backpack Program in four of our Counties. This program provides food for 480 children with “food insecurity” meaning that their nutritional needs may be met while in school and obtaining school meals. But they may not have access to food on the weekends. Bags of food are discretely placed in the child’s backpack to help meet his/her nutritional needs over the weekend. The Garden program is seeing a renewed interest. The garden program offers clients/individuals or families plants and seeds for a home garden. At the end of the gardening season, they report back the amount of produce reaped and if canning or freezing took place. We collaborate with local Extension Offices and Libraries for referrals and classes in gardening and food preservation. In Larue and Nelson County we collaborate with the FFA class to grow plants needed in those counties. Senior Citizens at our senior center in Larue and Nelson County in collaboration with the High School FFA class learn how to plant patio gardens. And take-home plants. Our Head Start families are receiving a child’s gardening book, seeds and a cell pack of plants, along with our garden flyer. Hot meals for seniors can be obtained by attending at our Senior Centers in 7 of the 8 counties. In Meade we operate a meal voucher program for seniors. We also distribute Farmers Market Coupons for seniors during the summer months.
7. To achieve greater participation in the affairs of the community Persons of low income need to be involved in their communities. This involvement can make them feel that they have more of a stake in the community. With this comes the feeling of pride and ownership. We track the number of people volunteering for Agency projects through ROMA. We encourage involvement from our clients in ours and other community projects, including participation on our Agency Board of Directors and Head Start Policy Council and Emergency Food and Shelter Board. The Needs Assessment Process gives the families of low-income an opportunity to provide input into program planning. Our clients are also offered the opportunity to complete a Satisfaction Survey to assist the Agency in customer service. We mobilize community resources for families of low-income. We advocate for them during community presentations. We provide advocacy with other programs to get faster results.
To remove obstacles and solve problems by establishing comprehensive, long-term programs of family development, which will help achieve goals, solve problems and maintain self-sufficiency: Case management is provided to assist families toward self-sufficiency. By assisting families in times of need, and providing counseling regarding budgeting, employment, education, housing, or involvement we are helping them become self-sufficient. Assisting a family to rent an apartment that they can afford or assisting them with the application process for loans or Section 8 helps them become self-sufficient. Assisting to remove obstacles to employment and education, developing strategies to prevent further emergencies and providing follow-up support assist them in becoming self-sufficient. “We will help you help yourself become self-sufficient.” Case management toward self-sufficiency is required and funded by several of the funding streams that we operate alongside CSBG. Making our CSBG dollars go farther.
iii. This Agency participates in inter-agency meetings throughout the 8 county region in an effort to bring awareness of community concerns, to remove barriers to self-sufficiency. We also work closely with the Family Resource Centers and Youth Service Centers to reach the children in our area. We work with local law enforcement offices. They are “on call” to protect us when clients become belligerent or violent.
iv. This Agency works closely with Marion County Community Services Center, Aid to West Marion County, Ministerial Associations in all Counties Served, Monks of Gethsemane, St. Vincent DePaul Society, Good Samaritan, Red Cross, Salvation Army, County Extension Offices, Family Resource Centers, Goodwill Industries, Fiscal Courts in each County Served, America’s Second Harvest of Kentucky’s Heartland, Grayson County Community Alliance, Kentucky Housing Corporation, Christian Motorcycle Club, Toys for Tots, Army Reserve, Clothes Closet, High School Clubs, Hendrickson Auxiliary, Mail Carriers Union, Boy Scouts, United Postal Service, Public Housing, Department of Community Based Services. Our field staff works closely with other providers of Service in their areas. In Hardin County, we work in a triangle, with St. Vincent DePaul, Hardin County Hope and Helping Hand, to assist clients. In Marion County, we work with the Community Service Center, and other faith-based organizations to assist clients. In Breckinridge, Larue, Grayson, and Meade County we work closely with the Ministerial Associations, Civic organizations, and other groups to provide the assistance needed. In Nelson County, we work closely with Gethsemane and St. Vincent’s. In Washington County, we maintain a close relationship with Catholic Church and the Salvation Army and other community groups. We provide emergency food through our Food Banks or refer to Food Banks in the area. We work with the Red Cross, Goodwill and other groups to provide furniture in case of fire or disaster. Our intent is to be the hub of the service provider network in the areas we serve. The County Judges serve on our Board of Directors and on the Local Emergency Food Shelter Board. Staff members attend many different meetings in which services are discussed. This information prevents the duplication of services. More and more, local Churches and the Salvation Army are turning to our Outreach Staff to screen clients for eligibility. Several deposit funds into the Local Match Funds for Counties, allowing us to provide assistance in our offices.
As stated earlier, the strong community service provider network is a great strength. By being aware of other services offered, coordinating services, and making effective use of other services offered, our staff can better help the clients we serve. These partnerships also allow this Agency to be able to get the best results from our resources. Our CSBG Staff members sit on many community Boards.
v. We encourage economic development. As representatives of the low-income, the Community Services staff promote their hiring, by reminding the community of this untapped resource. We advocate for our client base to get a share of opportunities. Staff members provide program presentations to civic groups, including the Kiwanis and Rotary Clubs. We work with job services to place clients in available positions. Staff members attend Town Hall sessions with legislators to bring the plight of families of low-income to their attention. The addition of the Kentucky Works Program also creates closer ties with the economic development commissions in each of our Counties. Staff members attend Chamber of Commerce Meetings and Economic Development functions.
vi. We do provide education, counseling, and technical assistance with equal opportunity issues in our county offices. Cases are referred to the Agency Equal Opportunity Officer as necessary. Notices are posted in each of our offices. Equal Opportunity instructions are provided as we process the service assessments for each family.
e. PRIORITIZING COMMUNITY NEEDS
During our Needs Assessment Process, we received feedback from the 810 people completing the survey. This included Client, Community Partners, Board Members and Staff. To set the priorities Survey Monkey was used to compile and determine the needs in each category and then ranked the categories.
Central Kentucky Community Action Council, Inc. ranked the CSBG services categories as follow for the fiscal year 2023-2024:
KEY FINDINGS
f. A common intake in CASTiNET is performed and eligibility is determined. Those eligible are referred to the most appropriate program within CSBG or the Agency. They may be provided with financial assistance with CSBG or other program funds as necessary and if available. County Coordinators will follow up with the individual or referral completing program goals.
Termination is based upon the completion of the immediate goal-long or short or the program requirements.
1. Employment Due to the current economic climate and the 4.3% unemployment rate 71.60% of the surveyed rank the Opportunity for a “Living Wage” job is needed to become self-sufficient. There are many services that we can provide for employment – making employment our number priority. We have budgeted funds to Employment Client Support to assist with the cost of employment training, employment transportation, and to assist with the purchase of items required for employment. Referrals to Employment Agencies and directly to employers do not require client service dollars to be spent. Additional Staff time will also be budgeted to the Employment Category. Family
2. Housing We assume that the many Emergency Services offered by this Agency are meeting most of the needs of the families of low-income, helping families help themselves. 60.25% expressed a need for assistance with emergency heating and cooling, (utilities, rent/mortgage). Housing is a real issue in our area. We provide many housing services, including Weatherization, housing placement and rental assistance programs. The cost of rent in our area has risen, especially in the Hardin and Meade County areas that were impacted by Fort Knox continues. The CSBG Staff agrees that if current funding exists, most emergency needs will be met. This Agency will continue to aggressively seek funding to continue and expand Housing. Family
3. Education Although Education ranked mid-way in the Survey at 55.31%. With the support for adult students, the Educational Scholarship Programs and Youth Programs are included in this category. We will continue to help remove barriers to costs for education, skills training fees, class fees, books, referrals to GED Centers and payment for GED tests. Education also leads to jobs and self-sufficiency. Youth camp scholarships to local children so they can attend 4-H camp and various educational activities focused on children. Swimming passes, summer reading. Family
4. Health and Social/Behavioral Development 38.40% since this agency provides many services in the Nutrition Category, this indicates that Nutritional needs are met. With new involvement in Gardening, we will help meet needs to improve adults and children with healthy eating and exercise. We will continue to provide existing services, including the Backpack, Senior Commodity, and Food Bank Programs. Local Extension Offices will be used for nutrition classes and how to save money on groceries. Although the unemployment rate is lower than last year, many jobs do not include benefits such as health insurance. The high cost of medical care and prescriptions, along with the large number of families without health insurance makes this category a major concern of low-income families. We will continue to refer families to the Free Medicine Program for free prescription drugs. Our staff, in answer to the need of our families, will recommend that families apply for K-Chip to help families obtain health insurance for their children. We will continue to provide assistance with health care needs and expand our knowledge in this area to enable us to provide productive referrals for health care. We will also continue to refer to our Transportation Program for medical transportation. Our Agency does not operate the KYNECT insurance program but will continue to bring this to our client’s attention. Family
5. Income and Asset Building 35.43% of the surveyed noted Income and Asset Building was needed. Classes on “budget shop” learn how to manage money and SNAP for the month are needed. The CSBG staff also recognizes the importance of income management. No financial assistance, except LIHEAP, will be provided to clients without developing a budget with the client. We will partner with Extension Offices for budgeting classes. Family
6. Support Services, Supporting Multiple Domains Many of the services lead to self-sufficiency. 30.74% Bundling of services across multiple areas of the agency to create a high level of impact. Case management can be reported here or under a specific activity. We will continue to provide existing services and budgeting. Family
7. Civic Engagement and Community Involvement 8.27% Staff members collaborate with individuals or low-income groups to inform them of the availability of programs and services in all service categories. We have developed and now maintain low-income representative groups, giving them a voice in the community. Community planning is also a component of this area. Community
g. Logic Models were constructed for each of the service categories.
h. CSBG funds will be distributed among the Service Categories according to the Needs Assessment Survey Results as staff time and financial assistance. The results of the areawide Needs Assessment process, the input of our experienced staff, along with input from the Board of Directors and the Executive Director have set the following priorities for our CSBG Program, FY 2023-2024. Both funds and staff time will be budgeted to provide services.
Explanation if funds do not align with the service categories.
Employment is our number one priority. Kentucky Works and Head Start within the agency have employment programs along with CSBG.
Housing is our number two according to our Needs Assessment; we supplement our assistance with Emergency Food and Shelter, local match donations, Tri County United Way Grant, Wintercare, and Winterhelp.
i. Our CSBG Coordinators have developed and maintain close working relationships with the other service providers in our service area, including Department for Community Based Services, and other service providers, to identify the services available to families of low-income. This allows us to provide the best results from our resources without duplication, through both direct service and information and referral. This networking assures that every avenue is explored to obtain the services our clients need. We can deliver services effectively to those that may fall into the gaps between other service provider programs, including DCBS. Whenever the opportunity presents itself, we attempt to forge partnerships with other agencies during the delivery of services to our clients. We often share the cost of services with other agencies. The County Coordinators are involved in the County Interagency Meetings, held at least quarterly, and through telephone contacts and field visits to other offices of locations of service delivery. Our County Outreach Staff assists families with the completion of Weatherization applications and forwards them to the Central Office. K-TAP recipients are assisted through both the CSBG Offices and the Kentucky Works Program. Hardin Hope and Helping Hand Agencies, Marion County Community Services Center, Aid to West Marion County, Ministerial Associations, Grayson County Community Alliance, and other Agencies, all refer to and accept referrals from our Agency for clients needing financial assistance. This network of Service Providers has knowledge of programs in operation in the Service Area. Monks of Gethsemane, Fiscal Courts, Ministerial Associations and Salvation Army provide funds on a regular basis to assist clients with financial needs. Our County Offices provide screening for eligibility for all clients assisted by The Good Samaritan and Clothes Closet, to provide food and clothing. St. Vincent DePaul and Goodwill accept our vouchers for items in their stores. Goodwill offers “cents per pound” for any donations designed to Community Action – we in turn can send our clients to Goodwill for free. The Boy Scouts and the Postal Workers perform an annual food drive and give the food collected to our county Food Banks. Feeding America is a partner to provide food for our food banks, Senior Commodities, USDA Commodities, and food for the Backpack Program. Family Resource Centers work with our Backpack Program and our Christmas Programs to reach eligible children in the school system. High School Clubs collect food for our Annual Christmas Program. Christmas Program assistance is also provided by the Christian Motorcycle Club, The Marine Corps, Army Reserve, and Toys for Tots. The County Extension Offices partner with our Staff to assist children to 4H Camp. Extension Staff offer food preparation classes to seniors receiving Senior Food Commodities. The United Postal Service provides products that have been opened or have boxes that are damaged that we can pass on to our clients. We work closely with Public Housing to assist clients with Housing Placement. We work with Local DCBS to provide assistance to clients.
j. To the best of this writer’s knowledge, CKCAC does not duplicate the services provided by other state and local agencies.
i. With the permission of the client, we freely share information with other service providers. We provide the county DCBS offices with a report of all LIHEAP applicants for each program. Interagency Meetings are held in each county in our service area on at least a quarterly basis. These meetings are expected to facilitate interagency cooperation and the assessment of the social services currently being provided – and identifying the gaps in services in the geographical area. The CSBG staff plays a leading role in these meetings. CSBG shares a report of the Head Start age children served during LIHEAP with Head Start. CSBG Staff completes the Weatherization Applications, administers the Winterhelp, Wintercare, Emergency Food and Shelter when available, Local Match and KU Home Energy Assistance Programs. Agency Staff members are involved with the “Shop with a Cop” Program, the Toys for Tots Program, Salvation Army, and other programs that provide family support. We make and accept referrals from the Community Collaboration for Children Program to assist families with their needs. Referrals are made to and from Head Start. CSBG Staff Members regularly speak to other Service Providers at their meetings to ensure that program information is conveyed.
ii. Agency Staff work closely with faith-based organizations, One-Stops, and other organizations on a regular basis. We share referrals and direct clients to other organizations and accept referrals from these organizations. Our clients benefit because they have access to all services available due to the elaborate network of service providers. Marion County Community Services Center, Ministerial Associations, refers to and accepts referral from our Agency for clients needing financial assistance. Monks of Gethsemane, Salvation Army, and St. Vincent DePaul provide regular funds to assist clients.
iii. This Agency does not knowingly duplicate the services provided by DCBS or other agencies. Staff members on the County level; work with DCBS to assist clients on a regular basis, including the one family – one plan program. Our services “fill in the gaps.” Community Action Kentucky (CAK) provides the LIHEAP Subsidy and Crisis listings to DCBS at the end of each program. County Offices may also provide a list in alphabetical order by last name, including name, address, number in family, and benefit amount. Any suspected abuse of adults or children is reported to DCBS and the authorities. The Backpack Program targets children that may have “food insecurity”. Food is provided for the weekends when school breakfast and lunch are not available. This Agency targets Senior Citizens for LIHEAP, making calls to older clients to inform them of the program. This Agency, along with America’s Second Harvest and USDA provide Senior Commodities to 800 Senior Citizens on a monthly basis, equaling over $400,000 worth of food per year. Approximately 420 pounds of food to a senior each year.
k. We provide opportunities for learning and enjoyment that children in families of low income may not have. We make referrals to Head Start, Even Start, allowing children to be cared for in a safe secure environment. We provide educational/enrichment experiences for these children through camps, including 4-H, Salvation Army, swimming lessons, pool passes, family Zoo passes, field trips, creative and performing arts, sponsoring ball teams, and providing sports equipment. We also provide discounted family passes to the Louisville Zoo through a collaborative effort with the Zoo. Each County offers a unique program. We coordinate with other existing youth programs, including the Family Resource Centers, and other organized community events, to pool our ideas and resources to better serve the at-risk youth in our area. The Backpack Program is coordinated through several of our County Offices. Providing additional food that a child can prepare and eat without help over the weekend.
Our Educational Scholarship Program includes all eligible applicants from high school or GED. Education is the key toward self-sufficiency. These programs also give children the opportunity to fill their time with wholesome activities that may prevent or reduce youth crime.
l. The Community Services Director and each County Community Services Coordinator are responsible for carrying out coordination and linkages functions. No limitations are placed on client services due to the coverage provided by the work training programs in our offices. All offices administer the LIHEAP Subsidy and Crisis components. Thousands of families are served. Every worker in the CSBG group will be asked to provide at least two presentations annually to draw attention to the needs of families of low-income and the programs available to meet those needs now that COVID -19 restrictions are being lifted. Each worker also serves on several boards or committees. Staff members have positive contact with the local media and the agency uses social media to advertise our programs.
m. Describe how the agency analyzed SFY 2022 and 2023 ROMA data and adjusted the SFY 2024 plan to improve service delivery.Several members of the management team and key personnel in other departments meet to analyze the Community Needs Assessment data. Ellen Leake, CSBG Director-CCAP, Nationally Certified ROMA Implementer provided the needs assessment data compiled by Survey Monkey these combined responses determined rank. A logic model is completed for each category for FY 24 to be used in the grant.
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS Charts and graphs following.
279,286 Population 2017-21 Data Source US Census Bureau
Population in Poverty by Age Group 0-4 17,087, 5-17 49,594, 18-24 23,153, 25-34 35,145, 35-44 35,823,45-54 36,122, 55-64 38,780, 65+ 43,582
Population by race.
Veteran Population in the Area 24,348 11.70%
There are 105,796 households in the service area with 14,265 in poverty or 13.8% (US Census Bureau, American Community Survey. 2017-21)
Population and poverty estimate for children age 0‐4 are shown for the report area. According to the American Community Survey 5‐year data, an average of 18.7% percent of children lived in a state of poverty during the survey calendar year. The poverty rate for children living in the report area is greater than the national average of 18.5%.
Seniors in poverty. Population and poverty estimate for persons age 65 and up are shown for the report area. According to the American Community Survey (ACS) 5‐year data, an average of 10.6% of people lived in a state of poverty during the survey calendar year. The poverty rate for people living in the report area is less than the national average of 9.6%.
The unemployment rate in the area is at 4.37% (US Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics. January 2023 Preliminary Unemployment Rates Kentucky 4.2% kystats.ky.gov
Median annual household incomes in the report area for 2019
Total Population
A total of 279,286 people live in the 3,317.67 square mile report area defined for this assessment according to the U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2017-2021 5-year estimates. The population density for this area, estimated at 84 person per square mile, is less than the national average population density of 93 person per square mile.
| Report Area | Total Population | Total Land Area (Square Miles) | Population Density (Per Square Mile) | |
| Report Location | 279,286 | 3,317.67 | 84 | |
| Breckinridge County, KY | 20,345 | 569.81 | 36 | |
| Grayson County, KY | 26,351 | 499.93 | 53 | |
| Hardin County, KY | 110,134 | 623.40 | 177 | |
| Larue County, KY | 14,769 | 261.55 | 56 | |
| Marion County, KY | 19,556 | 343.05 | 57 | |
| Meade County, KY | 29,735 | 305.44 | 97 | |
| Nelson County, KY | 46,440 | 417.52 | 111 | |
| Washington County, KY | 11,957 | 296.97 | 40 | |
| Kentucky | 4,494,141 | 39,491.69 | 114 | |
| United States | 329,725,481 | 3,533,041.03 | 93 |
Data Source: US Census Bureau, American Community Survey. 2017‐21. Source geography: Tract
Total Population by Age Groups
This indicator reports the total population of the report area by age groups.
| Report Area | Age 0‐4 | Age 5‐17 | Age 18‐24 | Age 25‐34 | Age 35‐44 | Age 45‐54 | Age 55‐64 | Age 65+ |
| Report Location | 17,087 | 49,594 | 23,153 | 35,145 | 35,823 | 36,122 | 38,780 | 43,582 |
| Breckinridge County, KY | 1,179 | 3,467 | 1,662 | 2,115 | 2,354 | 2,589 | 3,095 | 3,884 |
| Grayson County, KY | 1,653 | 4,709 | 2,098 | 3,116 | 3,152 | 3,296 | 3,705 | 4,622 |
| Hardin County, KY | 7,189 | 20,043 | 9,945 | 14,641 | 14,696 | 13,896 | 14,301 | 15,423 |
| Larue County, KY | 793 | 2,462 | 1,002 | 1,653 | 1,941 | 1,886 | 2,484 | 2,547 |
| Marion County, KY | 1,123 | 3,535 | 1,589 | 2,381 | 2,326 | 2,571 | 2,816 | 3,215 |
| Meade County, KY | 1,576 | 5,112 | 2,403 | 3,985 | 4,183 | 4,039 | 4,176 | 4,261 |
| Nelson County, KY | 2,832 | 8,224 | 3,551 | 5,852 | 5,801 | 6,222 | 6,519 | 7,439 |
| Washington County, KY | 742 | 2,042 | 903 | 1,402 | 1,370 | 1,623 | 1,684 | 2,191 |
| Kentucky | 270,859 | 751,050 | 418,668 | 581,740 | 560,926 | 573,036 | 603,011 | 734,851 |
| United States | 19,423,121 | 54,810,954 | 30,339,089 | 45,360,942 | 42,441,883 | 41,631,458 | 42,829,413 | 52,888,621 |
Data Source: US Census Bureau, American Community Survey. 2017‐21.
Race Demographics
Total Population by Race Alone, Percent
This indicator reports the percentage of population by race alone in the report area.
The percentage values could be interpreted as, for example, “Of all the population in the report area, the percentage of population who are white is (value).”
| Report Area | White | Black | Asian | Native American or Alaska Native | Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander | Some Other Race | Multiple Race |
| Report Location | 86.72% | 7.00% | 1.04% | 0.17% | 0.17% | 0.81% | 4.10% |
| Breckinridge County, KY | 95.12% | 1.98% | 0.00% | 0.02% | 0.01% | 0.29% | 2.56% |
| Grayson County, KY | 96.16% | 0.29% | 0.30% | 0.04% | 0.03% | 0.61% | 2.57% |
| Hardin County, KY | 78.07% | 11.81% | 1.91% | 0.27% | 0.31% | 1.30% | 6.32% |
| Larue County, KY | 93.22% | 3.36% | 0.34% | 0.03% | 0.00% | 0.79% | 2.26% |
| Marion County, KY | 89.31% | 6.90% | 0.68% | 0.34% | 0.16% | 0.94% | 1.67% |
| Meade County, KY | 91.00% | 3.78% | 0.78% | 0.12% | 0.30% | 0.36% | 3.66% |
| Nelson County, KY | 91.59% | 5.13% | 0.46% | 0.09% | 0.00% | 0.37% | 2.36% |
| Washington County, KY | 89.50% | 5.93% | 0.66% | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.16% | 3.76% |
| Kentucky | 85.50% | 8.05% | 1.53% | 0.16% | 0.09% | 1.14% | 3.54% |
| United States | 68.17% | 12.55% | 5.70% | 0.83% | 0.19% | 5.58% | 6.99% |
Data Source: US Census Bureau, American Community Survey. 2017‐21.
Veteran Population
This indicator reports the percentage of the population age 18 and older that served (even for a short time), but is not currently serving, on active duty in the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or the Coast Guard, or that served in the U.S. Merchant Marine during World War II. Of the 208,147 population of the report area, 24,348 or 11.70% are veterans.
| Report Area | Total Population Age 18+ | Total Veterans | Veterans, Percent of Total Population |
| Report Location | 208,147 | 24,348 | 11.70% |
| Breckinridge County, KY | 15,690 | 1,480 | 9.43% |
| Grayson County, KY | 19,963 | 1,331 | 6.67% |
| Hardin County, KY | 79,236 | 12,774 | 16.12% |
| Larue County, KY | 11,509 | 941 | 8.18% |
| Marion County, KY | 14,898 | 1,110 | 7.45% |
| Meade County, KY | 22,343 | 2,945 | 13.18% |
| Nelson County, KY | 35,335 | 3,265 | 9.24% |
| Washington County, KY | 9,173 | 502 | 5.47% |
| Kentucky | 3,458,124 | 250,427 | 7.24% |
| United States | 254,296,179 | 17,431,290 | 6.85% |
Data Source: US Census Bureau, American Community Survey. 2017‐21. Source geography: Tract
Veterans by Age
| Report Area | Veteran Age Males 18‐34 | Veteran Age Females 18‐34 | Veteran Age Males 35‐54 | Veteran Age Females 35‐54 | Veteran Age Males 55‐64 | Veteran Age Females 55‐64 | Veteran Age Males Over 65 | Veteran Age Females Over 65 |
| Report Location | 1,548 | 456 | 6,244 | 1,538 | 4,402 | 926 | 8,799 | 435 |
| Breckinridge County, KY | 71 | 0 | 172 | 19 | 331 | 44 | 833 | 10 |
| Grayson County, KY | 23 | 0 | 194 | 65 | 285 | 47 | 688 | 29 |
| Hardin County, KY | 1,068 | 345 | 3,279 | 1,187 | 2,359 | 611 | 3,712 | 213 |
| Larue County, KY | 17 | 18 | 113 | 115 | 174 | 92 | 393 | 19 |
| Marion County, KY | 86 | 0 | 276 | 41 | 233 | 5 | 422 | 47 |
| Meade County, KY | 176 | 75 | 1,070 | 60 | 514 | 58 | 972 | 20 |
| Nelson County, KY | 106 | 7 | 990 | 51 | 436 | 64 | 1,530 | 81 |
| Washington County, KY | 1 | 11 | 150 | 0 | 70 | 5 | 249 | 16 |
| Kentucky | 16,503 | 3,000 | 53,488 | 8,304 | 41,818 | 5,899 | 116,585 | 4,830 |
| United States | 1,236,709 | 271,484 | 3,508,488 | 643,115 | 2,796,781 | 392,360 | 8,252,047 | 330,306 |
Data Source: US Census Bureau, American Community Survey. 2017‐21.
Poverty
Households in Poverty
The number and percentage of households in poverty are shown in the report area. In 2021, it is estimated that there were 14,265 households, or 13.5% living in poverty within the report area.
| Report Area | Total Households | Households in Poverty | Percent Households in Poverty |
| Report Location | 105,796 | 14,265 | 13.48% |
| Breckinridge County, KY | 7,532 | 1,369 | 18.2% |
| Grayson County, KY | 9,398 | 2,236 | 23.8% |
| Hardin County, KY | 42,288 | 4,679 | 11.1% |
| Larue County, KY | 5,906 | 1,026 | 17.4% |
| Marion County, KY | 7,536 | 1,354 | 18.0% |
| Meade County, KY | 10,331 | 1,369 | 13.3% |
| Nelson County, KY | 18,163 | 1,556 | 8.6% |
| Washington County, KY | 4,642 | 676 | 14.6% |
| Kentucky | 1,748,475 | 283,279 | 16.2% |
| United States | 124,010,992 | 15,381,768 | 12.4% |
Data Source: US Census Bureau, American Community Survey. 2017‐21. Source geography: County
Households Living Below the Poverty Level, Percent by Tract, ACS 2017‐21
Child Poverty Rate (ACS) Ages 0‐4
| Population and poverty estimates for children age 0‐4 are shown for the report area. According to the American Community Survey 5‐year data, an average of 18.7% percent of children lived in a state of poverty during the survey calendar year. The poverty rate for children living in the report area is greater than the national average of 18.5%. Report Area Ages 0‐4 Total Population Ages 0‐4 In Poverty Ages 0‐4 Poverty Rate Report Location 16,721 3,124 18.7% Breckinridge County, KY 1,167 362 31.0% Grayson County, KY 1,653 592 35.8% Hardin County, KY 6,958 1,063 15.3% Larue County, KY 724 91 12.6% Marion County, KY 1,121 295 26.3% Meade County, KY 1,565 287 18.3% Nelson County, KY 2,803 343 12.2% Washington County, KY 730 91 12.5% Kentucky 263,648 62,091 23.6% United States 19,064,128 3,535,591 18.5% Note: This indicator is compared to the state average. Data Source: US Census Bureau, American Community Survey. 2017‐21. Source geography: County Seniors in Poverty Population and poverty estimate for persons age 65 and up are shown for the report area. According to the American Community Survey (ACS) 5‐year data, an average of 10.6% of people lived in a state of poverty during the survey calendar year. The poverty rate for people living in the report area is less than the national average of 9.6%. Report Area Ages 65 and Up Total Population Ages 65 and Up In Poverty Ages 65 and Up Poverty Rate Report Location 42,489 4,497 10.6% Breckinridge County, KY 3,804 509 13.4% Grayson County, KY 4,510 974 21.6% Hardin County, KY 15,094 1,256 8.3% Larue County, KY 2,442 244 10.0% Marion County, KY 3,044 351 11.5% Meade County, KY 4,216 519 12.3% Nelson County, KY 7,296 349 4.8% Washington County, KY 2,083 295 14.2% Kentucky 714,937 79,906 11.2% United States 51,705,664 4,938,116 9.6% |
Current Unemployment
Labor force, employment, and unemployment data for each county in the report area is provided in the table below. Overall, the report area experienced an average 5.3% unemployment rate in January 2021.
| Location | Year | Month | Civilian Labor Force | Employed | Unemployed | Unemployment Rate |
| Breckinridge County | 2023 | January | 8,001 (P) | 7,589 (P) | 412 (P) | 5.1 % (P) |
| Grayson County | 2023 | January | 10,440 (P) | 9,950 (P) | 490 (P) | 4.7 % (P) |
| Hardin County | 2023 | January | 46,679 (P) | 44,675 (P) | 2,004 (P) | 4.3 % (P) |
| LaRue County | 2023 | January | 5,779 (P) | 5,509 (P) | 270 (P) | 4.7 % (P) |
| Marion County | 2023 | January | 9,542 (P) | 9,214 (P) | 328 (P) | 3.4 % (P) |
| Meade County | 2023 | January | 11,595 (P) | 11,003 (P) | 592 (P) | 5.1 % (P) |
| Nelson County | 2023 | January | 23,812 (P) | 22,841 (P) | 971 (P) | 4.1 % (P) |
| Washington County | 2023 | January | 6,164 (P) | 5,951 (P) | 213 (P) | 3.5 % (P) |
Labor Market Information Report Library – KYSTATS
Income ‐ Median Household Income
This indicator reports median household income based on the latest 5‐year American Community Survey estimates. This includes the income of the householder and all other individuals 15 years old and over in the household, whether they are related to the householder or not. Because many households consist of only one person, average household income is usually less than average family income.
| Report Area | Total Households | Average Household Income | Median Household Income |
| Report Location | 105,796 | $75,469 | No data |
| Breckinridge County, KY | 7,532 | $65,695 | $49,919 |
| Grayson County, KY | 9,398 | $57,535 | $40,839 |
| Hardin County, KY | 42,288 | $81,485 | $59,863 |
| Larue County, KY | 5,906 | $64,528 | $53,555 |
| Marion County, KY | 7,536 | $60,075 | $48,791 |
| Meade County, KY | 10,331 | $81,630 | $63,944 |
| Nelson County, KY | 18,163 | $81,819 | $64,354 |
| Washington County, KY | 4,642 | $73,199 | $59,049 |
| Kentucky | 1,748,475 | $76,511 | $55,454 |
| United States | 124,010,992 | $97,196 | $69,021 |
Median Household Income
Note: This indicator is compared to the state average.
Data Source: US Census Bureau, American Community Survey. 2017‐21. Source geography: Tract
| Report Area | Total Households | Households in Poverty | Percent Households in Poverty |
| Report Location | 105,796 | 14,265 | 13.48% |
| Breckinridge County, KY | 7,532 | 1,369 | 18.2% |
| Grayson County, KY | 9,398 | 2,236 | 23.8% |
| Hardin County, KY | 42,288 | 4,679 | 11.1% |
| Larue County, KY | 5,906 | 1,026 | 17.4% |
| Marion County, KY | 7,536 | 1,354 | 18.0% |
| Meade County, KY | 10,331 | 1,369 | 13.3% |
| Nelson County, KY | 18,163 | 1,556 | 8.6% |
| Washington County, KY | 4,642 | 676 | 14.6% |
| Kentucky | 1,748,475 | 283,279 | 16.2% |
| United States | 124,010,992 | 15,381,768 | 12.4% |
Data Source: US Census Bureau, American Community Survey. 2017‐21. Source geography: County
Households Living Below the Poverty Level, Percent by Tract, ACS 2017‐21
Child Poverty Rate (ACS) Ages 0‐4
| Population and poverty estimates for children age 0‐4 are shown for the report area. According to the American Community Survey 5‐year data, an average of 18.7% percent of children lived in a state of poverty during the survey calendar year. The poverty rate for children living in the report area is greater than the national average of 18.5%. Report Area Ages 0‐4 Total Population Ages 0‐4 In Poverty Ages 0‐4 Poverty Rate Report Location 16,721 3,124 18.7% Breckinridge County, KY 1,167 362 31.0% Grayson County, KY 1,653 592 35.8% Hardin County, KY 6,958 1,063 15.3% Larue County, KY 724 91 12.6% Marion County, KY 1,121 295 26.3% Meade County, KY 1,565 287 18.3% Nelson County, KY 2,803 343 12.2% Washington County, KY 730 91 12.5% Kentucky 263,648 62,091 23.6% United States 19,064,128 3,535,591 18.5% Note: This indicator is compared to the state average. Data Source: US Census Bureau, American Community Survey. 2017‐21. Source geography: County Seniors in Poverty Population and poverty estimate for persons age 65 and up are shown for the report area. According to the American Community Survey (ACS) 5‐year data, an average of 10.6% of people lived in a state of poverty during the survey calendar year. The poverty rate for people living in the report area is less than the national average of 9.6%. Report Area Ages 65 and Up Total Population Ages 65 and Up In Poverty Ages 65 and Up Poverty Rate Report Location 42,489 4,497 10.6% Breckinridge County, KY 3,804 509 13.4% Grayson County, KY 4,510 974 21.6% Hardin County, KY 15,094 1,256 8.3% Larue County, KY 2,442 244 10.0% Marion County, KY 3,044 351 11.5% Meade County, KY 4,216 519 12.3% Nelson County, KY 7,296 349 4.8% Washington County, KY 2,083 295 14.2% Kentucky 714,937 79,906 11.2% United States 51,705,664 4,938,116 9.6% |
Current Unemployment
Labor force, employment, and unemployment data for each county in the report area is provided in the table below. Overall, the report area experienced an average 5.3% unemployment rate in January 2021.
| Location | Year | Month | Civilian Labor Force | Employed | Unemployed | Unemployment Rate |
| Breckinridge County | 2023 | January | 8,001 (P) | 7,589 (P) | 412 (P) | 5.1 % (P) |
| Grayson County | 2023 | January | 10,440 (P) | 9,950 (P) | 490 (P) | 4.7 % (P) |
| Hardin County | 2023 | January | 46,679 (P) | 44,675 (P) | 2,004 (P) | 4.3 % (P) |
| LaRue County | 2023 | January | 5,779 (P) | 5,509 (P) | 270 (P) | 4.7 % (P) |
| Marion County | 2023 | January | 9,542 (P) | 9,214 (P) | 328 (P) | 3.4 % (P) |
| Meade County | 2023 | January | 11,595 (P) | 11,003 (P) | 592 (P) | 5.1 % (P) |
| Nelson County | 2023 | January | 23,812 (P) | 22,841 (P) | 971 (P) | 4.1 % (P) |
| Washington County | 2023 | January | 6,164 (P) | 5,951 (P) | 213 (P) | 3.5 % (P) |
Labor Market Information Report Library – KYSTATS
Income ‐ Median Household Income
This indicator reports median household income based on the latest 5‐year American Community Survey estimates. This includes the income of the householder and all other individuals 15 years old and over in the household, whether they are related to the householder or not. Because many households consist of only one person, average household income is usually less than average family income.
| Report Area | Total Households | Average Household Income | Median Household Income |
| Report Location | 105,796 | $75,469 | No data |
| Breckinridge County, KY | 7,532 | $65,695 | $49,919 |
| Grayson County, KY | 9,398 | $57,535 | $40,839 |
| Hardin County, KY | 42,288 | $81,485 | $59,863 |
| Larue County, KY | 5,906 | $64,528 | $53,555 |
| Marion County, KY | 7,536 | $60,075 | $48,791 |
| Meade County, KY | 10,331 | $81,630 | $63,944 |
| Nelson County, KY | 18,163 | $81,819 | $64,354 |
| Washington County, KY | 4,642 | $73,199 | $59,049 |
| Kentucky | 1,748,475 | $76,511 | $55,454 |
| United States | 124,010,992 | $97,196 | $69,021 |
Median Household Income
Note: This indicator is compared to the state average.
Data Source: US Census Bureau, American Community Survey. 2017‐21. Source geography: Tract