BUCKS COUNTY OPPORTUNITY COUNCIL INC

Economic self-sufficiency program:the economic self-sufficiency (es) program is the core program of the opportunity council and is at the heart of the mission. The es program requires partnerships and collaborations, and both public and private funding to be effective and efficient. While all our programs contribute to a more stable community, this program helps people leave poverty, permanently and thrive in the community. 402 households have graduated from the program since 1997 with an average increase of income of over $35,000 annually. The es program also includes the volunteer income tax assistance program (vita) which assists low to moderate income households by preparing tax returns for free and eliminating the cost burden of annual filing. (continued on sch. O)this program closes the income gap that families experience throughout the year by maximizing refunds through earned income tax credits. We average 1,300 returns annually.

Home energy conservation program:the home energy conservation program assists low-income households to reduce energy costs and increase disposable income through energy saving measures. This program also provides crisis support for households in need of immediate heater repair or replacement. This past year we successfully initiated a home repair program to reduce the deferral rates that often occur when low-income households cannot afford needed repairs to complete weatherization services. In fy24, 349 households received services through crisis response and weatherization services.