NECAC SEEKING PUBLIC INPUT THROUGH COMMUNITY NEEDS SURVEY

BOWLING GREEN — The North East Community Action Corporation (NECAC) is asking residents across its 12-county service region to help identify community needs and recommend improvements to programs that assist low-income and disadvantaged residents.

The agency has launched a Community Needs Survey, which will remain open through the summer. NECAC officials say the survey is designed to gather information about gaps in services, barriers people face, and potential new programs that could better serve communities.

NECAC County Services Programs Director Kayla Wasson said the agency relies on the survey to understand the challenges residents are experiencing and determine where additional assistance may be needed.

The survey is conducted every three years as part of NECAC’s requirements for receiving federal and state funding that supports social services, community health programs, and public housing initiatives. In the past, survey results have helped lead to the creation of programs such as food pantries at NECAC service centers, a diaper distribution program, and employment readiness services.

The questionnaire includes topics such as income, employment, education, housing, transportation, and other community needs. Residents can complete the survey electronically at NECAC service centers or online through the agency’s website.

NECAC is also hosting a series of focus group meetings across its service area to gather additional feedback from residents, businesses, and community organizations.

A focus group serving Pike County, Missouri is scheduled for 3 to 4:15 p.m. March 17 at the NECAC Service Center located at 805 Business Highway 61 in Bowling Green.

Other meetings will be held in Lewis, Marion, Ralls, St. Charles, Lincoln, Warren, Montgomery, Macon, Randolph, Shelby, and Monroe counties throughout March.

Officials say the focus groups will allow participants to provide more detailed input about the issues affecting their communities and suggest possible solutions for improving services.

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