COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT EDUCATION

HOUSING & ENERGY EFFICIENCY HEALTH & NUTRITION

July, 2014

JEFFERSON FRANKLIN

COMMUNITY ACTION

CORPORATION

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LEADERSHIP, GOVERNANCE &

FISCAL

Our MISSION

The mission of Jefferson Franklin Community Action Corporation

is to empower low-income individuals and families to reach their

highest level of success by integrating community resources.

Our VISION

JFCAC envisions communities with increased opportunities and

an improved quality of life for families living in the crisis of

poverty.

Our VALUES

Hard work and Commitment ~ Kindness and Respect to families

we serve ~ Education and Knowledge to achieve success ~

Team work and Passion to accomplish our mission

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What is a Community Action Agency (CAA)?

Community Action Agencies were created by the federal government

through the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964, to combat poverty in geo-

graphically designed areas. Status as a CAA is the result of an explicit

designation by local or state government. A CAA has a tripartite board

structure that is designed to promote the participation of the entire commu-

nity in the reduction or elimination of poverty. Community Action Agencies

seek to involve the community, including elected public officials, private

sector representatives and especially low-income residents in assessing

local needs and attacking the causes and conditions of poverty.

Who are We?

JFCAC is a non-profit organization committed to assisting low-income

people in achieving self-sufficiency through quality programs in Jefferson

and Franklin Counties. We are a federal, state and local funded Commu-

nity Action Agency incorporated in 1965. We are a charitable and educa-

tional tax-exempt organization described in Section 501 (c)(3) of the Inter-

nal Revenue Code. Contributions are income tax deductible under appli-

cable state and federal laws.

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Program Directors:

Kelly Sims, (CFO) Administration Director Paulette Hensley, Community Services & Energy Director

Carol Floarke, Head Start Director Janna Bittle, Housing Director

Joe White, Weatherization Director Jan Glaze, WIC Director

Our email is communityaction@jfcac.org. Visit our website at www.jfcac.org

Jefferson County Office (Administration, Community Ser-vices, Housing, Weatherization,

WIC, & Energy Assistance)

#2 Merchant Drive Hillsboro, MO

Office Hours:

Monday — Friday 8:30 am-4:30 pm

Customer Hours: Monday— Friday 8:30 am-4:30pm

Phone (636) 789-2686

Franklin County Office (Community Services, Energy

Assistance, Housing, & Weatherization)

1020 Plaza Court, Suite C

St. Clair, MO

Office Hours: Monday — Friday 8:30 am-4:30 pm

Customer Hours:

Monday— Thursday 8:30 am-4:30pm

Phone (636) 629-6193

Hillsboro Head Start Office

305 Third St. Hillsboro, MO

Office Hours:

Monday — Friday 8:30 am-4:30 pm

Customer Hours: Monday — Friday 8:30 am-4:30 pm

Phone (636) 789-3563

JEFFERSON FRANKLIN COMMUNITY ACTION CORPORATION

P.O. Box 920 Hillsboro, MO 63050

ROBERT OWEN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

GENERAL INFORMATION

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Family Size

(Program

Fiscal Year)

Head Start

(March 1— February 28)

Community

Services

(October 1 —September 30)

Energy

Assistance

(October1 —September 30)

Housing

(October 1 —September 30)

WIC

(October1 —September 30)

Weatherization

(July 1 — June 30)

1 $972 $1,215 $1,293 $1,958 $1,800 $1,945

2 $1,310 $1,638 $1,745 $2,237 $2,426 $2,621

3 $1,649 $2,061 $2,197 $2,516 $3,051 $3,298

4 $1,987 $2,484 $2,649 $2,795 $3,677 $3,975

5 $2,325 $2,907 $3,102 $3,020 $4,303 $4,651

6 $2,664 $3,291 $3,554 $3,245 $4,929 $5,328

7 $3,002 $3,753 $4,006 $3,470 $5,555 $6,005

8 $3,340 $4,176 $4,458 $3,691 $6,181 $6,681

This chart indicates each programs’ income eligibility based on the maximum

monthly gross income a family may earn.

PROGRAM GUIDELINES BASED ON MONTHLY INCOME

ADDITIONAL OPERATING LOCATIONS HEAD START HOUSE SPRINGS

Northwest Early Childhood Center

6180 Hwy MM

House Springs, MO

HEAD START ST. CLAIR

R-XIII Elementary School

895 Bardot Street

St. Clair, MO

HEAD START UNION

Zion United Church of Christ

106 S. Lincoln

Union, MO

HEAD START WINDSOR

Windsor School District Campus

933 Windsor Harbor Road

Imperial, MO

* The Agency Fiscal Year is March 1 — February 28.

ARNOLD WIC SITE

Jefferson County

Health Department

1818 Londell Road

Arnold, MO

HEAD START

COLLABORATION SITES

Sullivan Primary School

Union Early Childhood Center

Imperial Creative Expressions

Learning Center

HEAD START DE SOTO

De Soto Early Childhood Center

1812 Rock Road

De Soto, MO

HEAD START

FENTON

Hermitage Hills Baptist Chapel

1201 Saline Road

Fenton, MO

HEAD START/

EARLY HEAD START

GRAY SUMMIT

3251 Hwy. MM

Gray Summit, MO

HEAD START/

EARLY HEAD START

HEMATITE

3680 Hillsboro-Hematite Road

Hematite, MO

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HEAD START POLICY COUNCIL

Officers Community

Representatives

Head Start Parents

Deborah Weaver, Chair

Open, Vice-Chair

Open, Secretary

Edward Smith,

Board Of Directors, Representative

Brenda Goad,

Binki Patrol

Maria Killian,

Community Outreach in Gerald

Penny Roth,

Disability Resource Association

Brandy Coulter

Joseph Durr

Kristen Durr

Christina Johnson Daniels

Heather Leutzinger

Tiffany Ramsey

Annika Ruhr

Deb Short

Elizabeth Tolin

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

At Large Representatives

Dr. Julia Hampton

President

Jefferson County

Rev. Curtis Crumpecker

Treasurer

Franklin County

Cynthia Eckelkamp

Franklin County

Jerry Kelso

Jefferson County

Dianne Wittke

Jefferson County

Shirley Wilson

Secretary

Jefferson County

Aaron Arndt

Franklin County

Sandra Connor

Jefferson/Franklin County

Carla Komo

Franklin County

Deborah Weaver

Jefferson/Franklin County

Angela Peters

(Alternate)

Jefferson County

Joseph Johnson (Alternate)

Franklin County

Jeremy Heath (Alternate)

Jefferson/Franklin County

Lorraine Trapp (Alternate)

Franklin County

Edward Smith (Alternate)

Jefferson/Franklin County

Public Officials

Gil Alderson

Vice President

Jefferson County

Earlaine Sandoval

Franklin County

Tracy Smith

Jefferson County

Jenny Wallach

Franklin County

Carol Cameron

Jefferson County

Community Representatives

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FISCAL Year 2014 Review: March 1, 2013—February 28, 2014

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JFCAC HOUSING CHOICE VOUCHER PROGRAM

(Funded as)

FRANKLIN COUNTY PUBLIC HOUSING AGENCY

SUMM ARY SCHEDULE OF F INDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS YEAR ENDED SEPTEM BER 30, 2013

SUMMARY OF AUDITORS’ RESULTS

1. The auditor’s report expresses an unqualified opinion on the financial statements of the Franklin

County Public Housing Agency.

2. No significant deficiencies relating to the audit of the financial statements are reported in the

Independent Auditors’ Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting and on Compliance

and Other Matters based on an Audit of Financial Statements Performed in accordance with

Government Auditing Standards.

3. No instances of noncompliance material to the financial statements of the Franklin County Pub-

lic Housing Agency were disclosed during the audit.

4. No significant deficiencies relating to the audit of the major federal award programs are reported

in the Independent Auditor’s Report on Compliance for Each Major Program and on Internal

Control over Compliance in Accordance with OMB Circular A-133.

5. The Independent Auditor’s Report on Compliance for Each Major Program of the Franklin

County Public Housing Agency expresses an unqualified opinion on all major federal pro-

grams.

6. Audit findings that are required to be reported in accordance with Section 510(a) of OMB Circu-

lar A-133 are reported in the Schedule.

7. The Programs Tested as Major programs include:

CFDA Number Name of Federal Program or Cluster

14.871 Housing Choice Vouchers

8. The threshold used for distinguishing between Type A and B programs was: $300,000

9. The Auditee qualified as low risk auditee.

FINDINGS — FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AUDIT There were no reportable financial statement findings.

FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS — MAJOR FEDERAL AWARD PROGRAMS AUDIT No findings or questioned costs were noted during the performance of the audit.

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JEFFERSON FRANKLIN COMMUNITY ACTION CORPORATION

SUMM ARY SCHEDULE OF F INDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS YEAR ENDED February 28, 2014

SUMMARY OF AUDITORS’ RESULTS

1. The auditor’s report expresses an unmodified opinion on the financial statements of the Jeffer-

son Franklin Community Action Corporation.

2. No instances of noncompliance material to the financial statements of Jefferson Franklin Com

munity Action Corporation, which would be required to be reported in accordance with Gov-

ernment Auditing Standards, were disclosed during the audit.

3. The auditors’ report on compliance for the major federal award programs for the Jefferson

Franklin Community Action Corporation expresses an unmodified opinion on all major federal

programs.

4. Audit findings that are required to be reported in accordance with Section 510(a) of OMB Circu

lar A-133 are reported in this schedule.

5. The programs tested as major programs include:

CFDA Number Name of Federal Program or Cluster

93.569 Community Service Block Grant

93.600 Head Start and Early Head Start

8. The threshold used for distinguishing between Type A and B programs was: $300,000

9. The Auditee qualified as low risk auditee.

FINDINGS — FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AUDIT

There were no reportable financial statement findings.

FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS — MAJOR FEDERAL AWARD PROGRAMS AUDIT

No findings or questioned costs were noted during the performance of the audit.

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COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT, CONSUMER INPUT &

STRATEGIC PLANNING

Community Assessment

Community Needs Assessment (CNA) Our agency is currently in the process of conducting a CNA. With guidance from New Chapter Coaching

consultants, agency staff and board members are holding focus groups and collecting surveys. In addi-

tion, Community Service and Head Start staff members are conducting individual interviews and utilizing

on-line resources to obtain demographic data for both Jefferson and Franklin counties. As part of the

assessment process, we are also reviewing client satisfaction surveys collected over the past year. The

needs identified through this process will guide the agency’s strategic plan, as well as, the projects out-

lined in our Community Services Block Grant (CSBG).

While the process for gathering information is mostly the same as the CNA we conducted in 2011, we

are approaching this differently than we have in the past. For instance, instead of completing a separate

CNA for Head Start, we are conducting one agency wide assessment. In addition, we have collectively

decided to conduct annual CNAs in order to be more effective in addressing community needs and ser-

vice gaps as our community evolves and changes.

Our last agency CNA was completed in 2011. We obtained county-wide data for both Jefferson and

Franklin Counties by holding focus groups, collecting surveys, conducting individual interviews and utiliz-

ing online resources— including data from the Missouri Information System (MIS). Based on the sur-

veys, the most significant issue facing youth was the lack of adult role models; while unemployment was

the main problem adults were facing. Both the focus groups in Jefferson and Franklin Counties identi-

fied housing for the homeless, unemployment and dental care as the top needs in their area. While the

top needs identified in the individual interviews were transportation (the cost of driving legally, i.e. li-

cense plate fees, unpaid fines, etc…) and child care for families with special needs children.

Strategic Plan The last update to our current strategic plan was in 2010. We will begin writing our three year strategic

plan in the fall of 2014. All of the data obtained in the assessment process will be used to identify our

strategic commitments, create our goals and benchmarks, and update our agency’s mission and vision.

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Population: 2000: 5,433,153 2011: 5,955,802

Population:

Franklin: Jefferson:

2000: 92,803 196,069

2011: 101,263 217,531

Community Demographics

The following graphs are based on data obtained from the Missouri Census Data Center website: http://

mcdc.missouri.edu, from the ACS Profile 5 Year (2007-2011) Report for Jefferson and Franklin County.

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COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT,

DATA & ANALYSIS

Community Services

New Initiatives Open House:

Strengthening Empowering Lifting Families (S.E.L.F.) Class

Governor Nixon issued a Proclamation recognizing May as Community Action Month, in conjunction with May being National Community Action Month. In May, 2013 JFCAC held an open house in both our Hillsboro and St. Clair offices. Community resources, businesses and officials were invited to tour our facilities and meet with staff, who were available to answer questions about the services JFCAC provided to the financially struggling families and individuals in our area. This event provided staff an opportunity to learn about resources that have previously been underutilized in our community, in addition to creating new partnerships to help bridge gaps in services.

Sunrise School joined the Jefferson County Hunger Taskforce to provide easier access to food for their stu-

dents and families. Through this partnership Sunrise was able to bring the Brendan’s Backpack program, a service providing food to school age children for the weekend, to their school district.

To decrease duplication of services and reach more families Sunrise School began working with the Jefferson

County Toy Distribution project.

In addition, Community Services staff facilitated a Poverty Simulation for Sunrise School’s faculty. 35 faculty

members participated, and reported feeling greater empathy for their students whose families were financially struggling.

Pictured Left: Executive Director, Robert Owen and Weatherization Director Joe White discussing com-munity issues with Lt. Scott Schumer at our Open House in Jefferson County. Pictured Right: St. Clair Mayor, Ron Blum, encour-ages S.E.L.F. participants to persevere even when times are tough.

Through our collaboration with United Way, the First Baptist Church of St. Clair, Community Outreach of Gerald, the St. Clair Chamber of Commerce, and the City of St. Clair we were able to provide the S.E.L.F. Class to 16 families in our Franklin County community. S.E.L.F. is a six- week program that provides tools and education to help low-income families improve their lives and reach their full potential. Each week guest speakers from the community presented information on topics such as education opportunities, career interests, job searching, budgeting, nutri-tion and parenting tips. Dinner and child care were provided at no cost to the participating families. Families also received attendance gifts such as activities to do as a family, cleaning supplies, personal care kits, groceries and certificates for free haircuts and clothing.

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Above: Fredbird assisted JFCAC staff, Mar-shall Mason and Dave Rose, in handing out CFL bulbs to families participating at the Family Health & Education Fair.

Community Empowerment Collaborations Education Committees: In the effort to increase resources in our community and decrease dupli-cation of services we continued our partnerships with Disability Resource Association (DRA) in Jefferson County and the First Christian Church of Union (FCCU) in Franklin County. Both of which served as the lead agency, sponsoring and hosting the Family Health and Education Fairs in their counties.

Jefferson County provided backpacks and school supplies for 750

children.

180 children received haircuts from licensed hairdressers.

486 children received dental screenings (16 children were treated on

the dental van the day of the fair—the van returned a second day to provide treatment for the remaining children in need of services).

140 children received hearing exams (6 children did not pass the

hearing test and received referrals for additional assistance).

122 children received vision screenings (13 children did not pass the

vision test and were given referrals for additional assistance).

264 families received energy efficient light-bulbs through our EESE

booth.

Operation Food Search provided a free lunch to our fair participants

in Jefferson County.

Franklin County served 761 children total (557 were pre-registered

and 204 were “walk-ins”). Children who attended the fair had ac-cess to free school supplies, dental/vision/hearing screenings, a clothing exchange, free haircuts by licensed hairdressers, and a free lunch sponsored by FCCU.

Dental Coalition:

The Jefferson County Dental Coalition has continued its work to educate

the community about oral health: the importance of self-care and preven-

tative care, the effect of poor oral health on over all health and the availa-

ble resources in the community. In addition, the Dental Coalition has

been working with Comtrea’s Federally Qualified Health Center’s

(FQHC) Dental Clinic to assist in building their community partnerships

and educating the community of the resources available to Medicaid

recipients, the uninsured and the under-insured.

Dr. Suter, Director of Comtrea’s Dental Clinic and member of the

Dental Coalition, supervised local dental students who provided vis-

ual oral health checks for participants of the Family Health and Edu-

cation Fair. Those in need of care were then directed to Children

Hospital’s Dental Van who provided follow-up treatment.

Above: Participants of the Family Health and Education Fair receiving free dental exams.

Above: Great Clips staff member providing free haircuts at the Family Health and Educa-tion Fair

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Above: A Poverty Simulation participant seeking alternative ways to obtain money to pay his bills.

Hunger Taskforces:

Both the Jefferson County and Franklin County Hunger Taskforces par-

ticipated in the Operation Food Search Food Drive.

Jefferson County collected 9,470 items and $6,225, all of which was

divided between the 16 participating local food pantries.

Franklin County collected 7,789 items and $2,022, which was divid-

ed between the 8 participating local food pantries.

Through our Franklin County Hunger Taskforce partner, Maria Killan

(Gerald Community Outreach and President of the St. Vincent De-

Paul Franklin County Chapter), JFCAC was asked to facilitate a

poverty simulation at the National St. Vincent DePaul Conference

host by the Arch Diocese of St. Louis. There were 125 participants,

many of whom provide direct services/home visits for their clients.

Participants expressed feeling frustrated with the barriers our clients

face, and an urgency to do more. Many also expressed feeling

proud of the work they do, and felt this experience encouraged them

to continue their work in the community.

Community Service staff and members of the Jefferson County Hun-

ger Taskforce participated in Advocacy Day at the state capitol.

JFCAC had a display showcasing the Energy Efficiency and Safety

Education (EESE) program, the Jefferson and Franklin County Hun-

ger Taskforce Collaborations, and the Adult and Youth Step Up to

Leadership programs. Participants also had the opportunity to meet

with 9 out of the 14 representatives that serve the Jefferson and

Franklin County area to discuss the challenges their low income

constituents face and the services available to those who are finan-

cially struggling.

Jefferson County Toy Distribution:

In partnership with Toys for Tots, Festus Armory, and the local food

pantries a total of 27,000 toys were Collected; and 2,027 children

were served. Children received hats/gloves, clothing, stocking stuff-

ers, stuffed animals, personal items, undergarments and socks. In

addition, each family received a bag of groceries.

Toys and supplies were also distributed to children and families re-

ceiving services from the Jefferson County Safe House and Opera-

tion Home Front.

To date Franklin County has not implemented a county wide toy

distribution; however, the Franklin County Community Empower-

ment Collaboration members have been in discussion regarding the

development of one similar to Jefferson County’s Toy Distribution.

Above: Volunteers organized toys at the Festus Armory to assist families in need.

Above: Energy & Community Services Di-rector, Paulette Hensley, presenting infor-mation about JFCAC programs during Advo-cacy Day at the State Capitol.

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Community Resource Development Adult Step Up to Leadership (ASUL) continued its partnership with the Missouri Career Center in both Jefferson and Franklin Counties. The Arnold and Washington Career Centers hosted the classes and assisted in recruiting participants.

16 participants graduated (eight from each county). One participant had

to withdraw from the class prior to graduation due to an employment opportunity.

No mini-grants were awarded this year; however, the Step Up to Leader-

ship Advocacy Committee was developed to assist in recruiting and electing JFCAC board members to represent the low income families we serve. As a result of this committee we have had six graduates serve on our board of directors, five of which are still serving.

This program year, Ms. L.R., a Jefferson County 2010 graduate, bought

a house and started her own state accredited home day care business through our Housing Family Self Sufficiency program and Community Services Missouri Asset Development Program. She accepts children who are receiving state child care assistance. In addition, Ms. H.R., a Jefferson County 2013 graduate, is currently enrolled in the Missouri Asset Development Program and is working on enrolling in FSS in order to buy her own home, continue her education to obtain a business de-gree, and open her own hair salon.

Youth Step Up to Leadership (YSUL) was established to recruit and nur-ture youth leaders in our community. The Missouri Career Center’s Work-force Investment Act (WIA) Youth Program recruited their student workers for the class. Jefferson College and East Central College served as the host site for the classes.

24 participants (12 from each county) graduated from the class.

All of the participants were employed for the summer through the WIA

program. One of our graduates summer job turned into a full time em-ployment opportunity at the City of Pevely.

We had 14 high school students, 1 GED student and 7 college students

graduate YSUL.

One participant stated he was unsure of his future plans; and multiple

participants reported being the sole provider for their family due to the unemployment crisis in our community.

Energy Efficiency and Safety Education (EESE) Program

EESE helps improve homes for low-income families by making them safer

and more affordable. Homes are assessed for energy efficiency and safety.

Emergency needs are addressed along with minor weatherization measures.

Measures may include but are not limited to smoke detectors, carbon monox-

ide detectors, hot water heater jackets, pipe wrapping, outlet covers, and

furnace testing. 50 homes were improved over the last year through the

EESE Program. Some of the improvements made were repairs to furnaces

and water heaters to restore them to safe operating conditions, and identify-

ing/correcting water leaks to prevent expensive and unsafe damages to the

homes.

Pictured Above: Franklin County Youth Step Up to Leadership Participants working together to solve a team build-ing challenge.

Pictured Above: Jefferson County Youth Step Up to Leadership Partici-pants working together to solve a team building challenge.

Pictured bottom left: Staff member Brian Aubuchon performing a pressure pan test. This test indicates the leak-age within the HVAC ductwork system.

Pictured Above: Staff member Dave Rose providing information about the EESE & Weatherization Programs to an Open House guest.

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Energy Assistance Grant

Over 5,000 households received the Energy Assistance

grant this year; of which 2,921 were elderly and disabled

households. Due to the extreme weather this winter, Gover-

nor Nixon released additional funding for EA. In response to

the cost of propane doubling for many households, an addi-

tional EA grant was provided to the propane vendor on be-

half of those families.

Energy Conservation Kits and educational materials were

provided for 100 households. Families that completed appli-

cations in our offices also received two boxes of CFL bulbs.

Keeping Current

36 participants are currently receiving credits to reduce their

monthly electric bills through the Keeping Current program

funded by Ameren. The average credit is $60/month. Cli-

ents have reported the money they save on their bill has

allowed them to pay for dental services and other medical

expenses.

Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP)

1,739 households received assistance through Winter ECIP

to avoid disconnection or to restore their utility services. In

addition, five furnaces were repaired with Winter ECIP funds

for families with limited income so they could remain in their

homes this winter.

The State granted JFCAC $70,989 in Utilicare funding at the

end of April to help families with their high winter bills. An

additional $20,022 in Utilicare funding was released for sum-

mer bills.

549 received Summer ECIP to avoid disconnection or to

restore their utility services.

15 vulnerable individuals were able to stay in their homes as

a result of receiving an air conditioning unit last summer.

Energy Assistance

Pictured above: The Energy Conservation Kits, CFL bulbs, and a carbon monoxide alarm which were given to families who applied in office for our EESE/Weatherization and Energy Program. Pictured Below: A thank you note from a 5th grader to our Energy Assistance Staff

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Housing Choice Voucher Program (HVC)

Housing has established a partnership with 39 new landlords this year. 72 new families began receiving housing assistance. An average of 932 families are served per month. 25 families transferred to our jurisdiction. 142 vouchers were issued to families who applied in 2009. 12 families had increases in their income and successfully completed the housing program. 42 families had changes in their circumstances and were no longer in need of housing assistance. Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) In the last reporting period for the FSS grant, 75 families were being served. In the last program year there were 34 new enrollments and 26 new escrow accounts were established Four families successfully completed the program and nine families no longer needed rental assistance. HCV Homeownership Currently there are six families on the homeownership program. Housing is working with two families to issue homeownership vouchers.

Weatherization Assistance Program

Four funding sources have been utilized: The

Department of Energy (DOE) Weatherization

Assistance Program, Ameren and Laclede Gas

utility funding and the Low Income Heating Assis-

tance Program (LIHEAP).

The Department of Economic/Division of Energy

(DED/DE) has notified JFCAC that for 2014-2015

the DOE funds will be $162,825 which is an in-

crease of approximately 19.8% over 2013-2014

funding, and approximately $172,000 from

Ameren and Laclede Gas combined.

Monitoring by DED/DE was performed for Fiscal/

Procedural requirements in February 2014. All

issues that were identified in the Monitoring Re-

port were minor and have been successfully re-

solved.

71 homes were weatherized. Three staff obtained approximately 30 hours of

training.

Pictured top left: An attic before insulation has been in-stalled. Pictured bottom left: An attic after insulation has been in-stalled.

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Women, Infants and Children Supplemental Food Program (WIC) WIC is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. The National WIC Associations theme is WIC: Strengthening

Families for 40 Years, which showcases how the WIC Program is one of our country’s most important public health programs, and has enriched the lives of millions of families over the years. During the summer of 2013, as reported on USAToday.com, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published their Vital Signs Report, and the results showed, “Obesity rates among preschoolers were falling in many states for the first time in decades.” Missouri was sited as 1 of 5 states with the “largest absolute decreases in prevalence of obesity, with a drop of at least 1 percentage point.” In addition, the WIC program and breastfeeding (which WIC promotes and supports) are two of three “trends associated with the declining rates.” To read the article or for more information go to: http://usat.ly/1cGCrTh.

WIC established two new partnerships. The first collaboration was with Jefferson College School of Nursing,

which allowed 31 nursing students to complete some of their required clinical observations under the supervi-sion of our WIC RN, Tonya Thomas. The second collaboration was with COMTREA to provide free or reduced dental care to all WIC participants. During our Thursday clinic in Hillsboro a dental hygienist sets up a mini dental clinic to provide oral inspections, cleanings , and if further dental care is needed refers WIC participants to COMTREA’s dental clinic for follow-up treatment. This collaboration has had tremendous success with the hygienist seeing an average of 12-18 clients per day.

Breastfeeding Friendly Clinic

Pictured Above: WIC staff, Carrie Porter-O’Leary and Tra-cy Williams presented Dr. Diana Allen (from Festus High School) the Bronze level certificate for providing her breast-feeding staff and students flexible breaks throughout the day and a private, secure area to express milk or nurse their infants.

WIC is required to annually meet stringent criteria to

maintain their certification as a Breastfeeding Friendly Clinic. Only 20 out of 127 agencies in Missouri were granted this certification.

In celebration of World Breastfeeding Week, which is a

week dedicated to protect, promote and support breastfeeding worldwide in the effort to reduce malnu-trition and poverty WIC held a “Watermelon Feast” At Arnold City Park;14 moms/dads and children partici-pated.

In the effort to encourage local businesses to support

working mothers who breastfeed, the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) and the Missouri Breastfeeding Coalition developed the “Breastfeeding Friendly Workplace Award.” Employers are evaluated based on criteria for three levels of support: Gold, Sil-ver, and Bronze. This winter WIC recognized Festus High School with the Bronze level certificate.

WIC Results:

The total number of participants receiving nutrition education, mini physicals, and a food package prescribed for

their own individual needs was 41,656 (please note, due to the way the State WIC office figures participation in the program this is a total number of services provided, not an unduplicated participant count).

4,326 prenatal women

1,765 breastfeeding women

4,750 women who chose not breastfed their infant

1,161 fully breastfed infants

577 partially breastfed infants

10,567 infants who were fed formula only

18,510 children (ages one to five years) were seen

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HEAD START ANNUAL PROGRAM PERFORMANCE REPORT

Period Covered: Program Year March, 2013—February, 2014

(A) The total amount of public and private funds received and the amount from each source.

(B) An explanation of budgetary expenditures and proposed budget for the fiscal year.

Budget category 2013-2014

Actual Expenditures

Head Start/Early Head Start

(Including USDA & Eat Smart)

2013 – 2014

Proposed Budget

Head Start/Early Head Start

(Including USDA & Eat Smart

9/30/13 – 2/28/14)

Salaries & Fringe Benefits

$2,352,664 $2,306,972

Equipment

$0 $0

Contractual

$186,720 $219,754

Program Expenses

$1,081,781 $1,116,595

Training & Technical Assistance

$60,535 $60,535

TOTAL $3,681,700

$3,703,856

Head Start/Early Head Start: $3,507,938

USDA—CACFP $ 190,855

Eat Smart $ 2,446

TOTAL: $3,701,239

Non-Federal Match Required: $1,382,980

(The majority of our non-federal match is donated space.)

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C) Total number of children and families served, the average monthly enrollment (as a percentage of funded enrollment) and percentage of eligible children served.

A total of 612 children (143 in Early Head Start and 428 in Head Start)

from 564 families (123 in Early Head Start and 491 in Head Start) were served. (This count includes those who received services, but left the program prior to the end of the school year.)

72% of the children served were served based on the families’ income

being within the poverty guidelines.

The other 20% were from families receiving public assistance and 2%

were from families with foster children.

The remaining 6% included homeless families (4%) and families with

income between 101%—130% (2%) of poverty guidelines.

We maintained our funded enrollment of 415 Head Start children and

72 Early Head Start pregnant women, infants and toddlers throughout the year.

(D) The results of the most recent review by the Secretary and

the financial audit.

The last federal monitoring review of our program was in March 31—

April 4, 2014. We have not received the results of this monitoring at this time. The agency audit was conducted the following week April 7-11, 2014.

E) The percentage of enrolled children that received medical and dental exams.

The percentage of children receiving medical exams in Head Start and

Early Head Start was 90%.

The percentage of dental exams received was 86.6%.

(F) Information about parent involvement.

Parent involvement is the cornerstone of Jefferson Franklin Communi-

ty Action Corporation’s Head Start/Early Head Start program. Parent involvement is a way for parents to be active participants in their child’s preschool education. It is our philosophy that the parent is the child’s first and most important teacher. We support parents in their effort to be responsible guardians for their children. When the child makes gains in the classroom it is sustained through the parents’ con-tinued work with the child in that area.

All staff are responsible for building relationships with families with the overall goal being the empowerment of parents. By helping parents understand the educational system and by encouraging them to be-come part of the centers’ parent committee or the Policy Council (Head Start’s parent board), we feel they will be better able to advo-cate for their child in the public school system.

Jefferson Franklin Community Action Corporation Head Start staff work diligently to provide a variety of parent involvement activities. Parents are able to make a difference and have an influence on their child’s Head Start experience by volunteering for such things as help-ing teachers, planning and conducting parent meetings, serving on self-assessment committees, and being a member or an alternate of the Policy Council. These activities build skills for future employment and for participation in organizations in their communities.

Pictured above: Ms. Megan encouraging children’s creativity while recruiting for Head Start at the Mercy Jefferson Hospital’s Commu-nity Health & Fitness Expo

Above: Head Start parents and students enjoy-ing a special craft and lunch day for socializa-tion at our Hematite Center.

Above: A group photo from Special Guy Day at our House Springs Center.

Above: Head Start parents and students enjoy-ing lunch at our Hematite Center.

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Parents set family and personal goals by completing a Family Partnership Agreement. Staff are challenged to set goals with 100% of our families. The goals the families set are varied but may focus around health issues—completing physical and dental exams for their children or finding a medical provider; finding a job; or continu-ing their education. Once goals are set, the Head Start/Early Head Start staff work with the families to provide support as they work toward their socio-economic self-sufficiency.

There were 126 parents with less than a high school diploma, which is a major contributor to the families’ eco-

nomic self-sufficiency.

A total of 564 families were served. 53% were single parent families; 41% were two-parent families; 2% were

foster homes; and 4% were grandchildren being raised by grandparents. (G) The agency’s effort to prepare children for school readiness. Head Start works for the total child. Our education goal is for children to grow and develop to their full potential,

ensuring their success in school and in life. All enrolled children take part in meaningful learning activities to

develop language, cognitive, and social-emotional skills. It is imperative that children are given opportunities to

build necessary skills, thus encouraging children’s natural curiosity and a love of learning throughout life. This

is the foundation for school readiness.

Our program uses the High Scope Curriculum. School Readiness Goals are established for the program based

on the achievements that we want the children to work towards. The children are assessed on reaching these

goals through a series of observations made by the teacher and by information gathered from the parents. The

data is collected and examined to develop and implement a plan for program improvements.

We continue to enter into collaborations with local school districts to ensure smooth transition for the Head Start

children. Children that will be entering kindergarten are invited to visit their local schools. In addition, kinder-

garten teachers are invited to visit our centers to hold informational meetings for parents. This year 216 chil-

dren were transitioned to kindergarten from our program. Information that the schools may request include, but

is not limited to, health exams, immunizations, and developmental screenings. The information can be request-

ed by parents, and is forwarded directly to the schools with parental permission.

Pictured above left: Ms. Cindy and Ms. Nancy demonstrating how to clean your teeth during socialization at our Windsor Center.

Pictured above right: Head Start parents and students exploring a fire truck and learning about Emergency Preparedness.

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The Promise of Community Action The Promise of Community Action Community Action changes people’s lives, Community Action changes people’s lives, embodies the spirit of hope, improves com-embodies the spirit of hope, improves com-

munities, and makes America a better munities, and makes America a better place to live. We care about the entire com-place to live. We care about the entire com-

munity, and we are dedicated to helping munity, and we are dedicated to helping people people helphelp themselves and each other. themselves and each other.

*Projects are funded in whole/or part with federal funds received from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Ser-vices (HHS), Community Services Block Grant, as provided by Missouri Department of Social Services, Family Support Division.*