U.S. Representative Carol Miller (R-WV) recently sponsored bipartisan legislation that would address the needs of at-risk families by connecting them online with local nonprofits to help them access resources, support and services. .
“Families across the country are struggling to make ends meet as they face rising costs and supply chain shortages,” Rep. Miller said. “They need a helping hand now more than ever, and our bill will do just that by providing parents with access to helpful community resources.
The Helping Households And Neighbors Distribute Services for Families Act, HR 8620, also known as the Helping HANDS for Families Act, is co-sponsored by U.S. Representative Judy Chu (D-CA) and has been referred for review to the U.S. House Ways and Means. Committee.
If passed, HR 8620 would allow states to use funds already allocated to access online portals that connect families in need to community resources, such as pregnancy centers, child care programs children and pantries, according to a summary of the bill provided by lawmakers.
“As a mother and grandmother, I know there is no higher priority than providing for your family,” Rep. Miller said. “I urge the immediate passage of this legislation to provide relief to parents, keep families together and protect children in all communities.”
HR 8620 would amend the Social Security Act to enable means of accessing and using an electronic portal under the MaryLee Allen Promoting Safe and Stable Families program, which supports families at risk, preserves the nuclear family, promotes adoption and assists children in foster and adoptive families through accessibility to community services, the summary states.
“I am proud to co-lead the bipartisan Household and Neighbors Services Distribution (HANDS) Act for Families to improve these services and better meet the specific needs of families and children,” said the representing Chu.
