President Barack Obama announced today, five economically hard-hit communities where direct federal support would be provided to help fight poverty and assist children.
Called “Promise Zones,” Mr. Obama said, federally agencies will cut through red tape with the view to helping the residents struggling in these communities get back on their feet.
“We will help them succeed,” Mr. Obama said. “Not with a handout, but as partners with them, every step of the way. And we’re going to make sure it works.”
The five areas are: San Antonio, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Southeastern Kentucky and the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma.
The “Promise Zones” initiative is not intended to provide new monies, but give priority to participants for federal grants and assistance from an array of government agencies.
Mr. Obama said, “the five areas selected – urban and rural – have committed, in partnership with local business and community leaders, to use existing resources on proven strategies and make new investments that reward hard work. As well, they have developed strong plans to create jobs; provide quality, affordable housing and expand educational opportunity, which we’ll help them execute with access to on-the-ground federal partners, resources and grant preferences.”
The Obama Administration hopes to increase the number of areas to 20 over the next three years.
