The Cincinnati-Hamilton County Community Action Agency (CAA) has served as a trusted resource for Hamilton County’s lowincome residents since 1964. CAA is lifting families out of poverty by assisting youth and adults in finding employment, helping families afford and maintain safe housing, and by providing education and support. CAA’s programs help families overcome the challenges that might otherwise prevent them from becoming self-sufficient.

“CAA is excited to be part of an event that brings families together like the 22nd Annual Midwest Black Family Reunion,” said Gwen L. Robinson, CAA President/CEO. “Strong families are the foundation of a thriving community. From employment services to youth programs to early childhood education, families can turn to CAA for support.”

Families need a dependable income to afford the things they need. CAA prepares individuals for employment through job skills training, job search assistance, GED services, and computer literacy training. CAA also helps ex-offenders face the unique barriers they face in finding employment through its Fresh Start program. Aspiring entrepreneurs can receive assistance starting their own business through training courses offered by the Greater Cincinnati Microenterprise Initiative. And, young adults can acquire marketable skills and education through CAA’s many construction training programs.

Strong families also need a safe environment they can call home. CAA’s Home Weatherization Assistance Program performs repairs and updates to both houses and apartments, helping homes operate more efficiently and keeping utility bills manageable. The agency also provides financial utility bill assistance to help families avoid disconnection. During the summer months, CAA supplies fans and air conditioners for anyone over the age of 60 or anyone with a medical need for an air conditioned home.

CAA also supports the development of families through its award-winning Head Start/Early Head Start programs. Early Head Start helps mothers prepare for their new addition through prenatal education and newborn parenting classes. The program also provides a quality early childhood education to infants and toddlers up to age three. Head Start prepares 3 to 5 year-olds for kindergarten and for a life of learning. Both programs provide far more than an education, ensuring children’s dental, nutritional, physical, and mental health needs are met.

CAA also provides support and education to fathers and father figures to keep families strong. Through CAA’s Fatherhood Initiative, men develop a stronger understanding of their role in their child’s life and receive support as they overcome parenting challenges. In addition, men who participate in the program are invited to bond with their child through activities such as museum outings, fishing trips, or volunteering to help with CAA’s Head Start Soccer League.

CAA programs and services are administered at its Administrative Office building in Jordan Crossing at 1740 Langdon Farm Road. Head Start classes are available there and at over 140 sites across Hamilton County. To learn more about CAA’s services, call

513) 569-1840 or visit www.cincy-caa.org.