a. To research and collect information concerning the obstacles in the community that prevent the self-sufficiency of all residents, including, but not limited to, unemployment, lack of services, substandard housing and lack of resources;

b. To establish community action programs to eradicate these obstacles and improve the opportunities for low-income persons;

c. To develop, operate and evaluate cost-effective service models and innovative program approaches to address community problems;

d. To determine the level of assistance necessary to effectively fund the community action programs, coordinate the available resources in a cost-efficient manner, and assist community residents in securing available assistance;

e. To work with, and encourage the involvement of, neighborhood organizations, in the community action programs;

f. To involve low-income persons and other community residents in the development and implementation of community action programs; and

g. To encourage public and private organizations to cooperate and participate in community action programs and to stimulate these organizations to develop new employment opportunities and services for low-income persons in the community.

L.1991,c.51,s.5.