Department of Human Services
Memorandum
TO: Intergovernmental Relations Council Committee
FROM: Melody Woosley, Director, Department of Human Services
SUBJECT: Update on Status of Poverty Report Recommendations
DATE: February 28, 2020
At the Intergovernmental Relations Committee meeting on March 2, 2020, the Department of Human Services (DHS) and Government and Public Affairs (GPA) will discuss the recommendations included in the “Status of Poverty in San Antonio” report relevant to the Intergovernmental Relations Committee.
The “Status of Poverty in San Antonio” report, developed by the City of San Antonio’s Human Services Department and Metropolitan Health District, builds on previous reports and community conversations and provides recommended strategies included in a recent Asset Funders Network report, to focus investments and increase collaboration around poverty alleviation initiatives. The City’s report is structured around eight major frameworks: Employment and Income, Education and Skills Development, Wealth and Assets, Business Entrepreneurship, Affordable Housing, Homelessness, Physical and Mental Health, and Access to Transportation.
The report recommends that the City work with the Bexar County delegation at the federal and state level to limit predatory market practices and increase funding and support for asset-building efforts; including down payment assistance, free tax preparation, financial coaching, and access to low-cost financial services.