6: Economic and Social Well-Being

Improve the economic and social well-being of individuals, families, and communities, especially those most in need

Other Information:

The focus of this goal is to promote and support interventions that help disadvantaged and distressed individuals, families, and communities improve their economic and social well-being. The objectives further prioritize Department efforts by targeting interventions toward low-income families (including those receiving TANF), children, the elderly, persons with disabilities, and distressed communities. While substantial progress has been made in the past several years in reducing poverty, evidence supports a continued focus on helping those who need help. Also, as the American population ages, evidence points to the need to extend efforts to help the growing number of elderly persons remain as active and healthy as possible and delay or avoid chronic medical problems. An aging society means that the number of persons needing longterm- care services will increase and the availability of these services in the home and community will be a significant challenge if we are to help these citizens maintain their independence and quality of life. The need for long-term support is not limited to the elderly. As survival rates increase among people who are born with or acquire disabilities, and with more opportunities for them to lead better-quality lives in the community, there will be greater need to expand the options for home and community-based support structures for people of all ages. Finally, despite the need to use a wide range of community resources and organizations to deliver services to improve the well-being of families and communities, there remains widespread bias against faith- and community-based organizations participating in Federal social service programs.

Objective(s):

6.1: Low-Income Individuals and Families

6.2: Older Americans

6.3: Persons with Disabilities

6.4: Distressed Communities

6.5: Community and Faith-Based Partnerships

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