The County Welfare Directors Association of California (CWDA) issued the following statement on the announcement of the formation of the new legislative caucus focused on poverty and inequality – Ending Poverty and Inequality in California (EPIC):

“We eagerly look forward to working with the EPIC Caucus, a much-needed, valuable place where state policymakers and partners can zero in on the epidemic of poverty in California, vet solutions and closely monitor how those strategies are being put into action. We commend Senator DeSaulnier, Senate President pro Tem Steinberg and Speaker Pérez for the creation of EPIC, and CWDA is proud to be partners in this critical initiative to ensure ending poverty and inequality remain a focus of the Legislature for years to come,” said Frank Mecca, CWDA Executive Director.

“On two consecutive days, state policymakers have made it clear now is the time to identify effective and strategic anti-poverty approaches, not only for the well-being of children and families but also for the health of our economy,” Mecca said.

“We see the faces and know the children and families behind those stark numbers of the millions living in poverty. While we diligently work to help them meet their basic needs, we recognize more can and must be done to see lasting improvements in their lives,” said Susan von Zabern, CWDA President and Director of the Riverside County Department of Public Social Services. “My colleagues and I appreciate Senator DeSaulnier’s leadership in this initiative, and look forward to working with he and Caucus members toward policy changes that best serve children and families.”

The County Welfare Directors Association of California (CWDA) is a nonprofit association representing the human service directors from each of California’s 58 counties. The Association’s mission is to promote a human services system that encourages self-sufficiency of families and communities, and protects vulnerable children and adults from abuse and neglect.

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