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Economic development director urges community response after poverty statistic announced
Summary
Mike Arman, Oak Hill's economic development director, told the commission that 38% of the city's school-age children (about 170) are living in poverty and urged the city to identify those families and connect them to resources through schools, churches and community partners.
Mike Arman, Oak Hill's economic development director, told the commission he was alarmed to learn that about 38% of the city's school-age children—roughly 170 students—are living in poverty and urged a communitywide response.
"38% of the school age children in Oak Hill, that's a 170 children, are living in poverty," Arman said, adding that the number "shocked" him and that the city should work with churches, schools and local groups to identify families and connect them with assistance for food, clothing and other needs.
Commissioners and staff discussed possible next steps, including outreach to schools to identify needs, engaging community partners and clarifying what resources are available. City staff acknowledged the need to coordinate and suggested developing a plan to identify and assist affected families.
Arman said he does not yet have a fully formed program recommendation but urged the commission to begin conversations to map local resources and partnerships.
