I figured it would be best to introduce myself first. I am Lori Kitchen. I started working for UWSEM on December 1st, 2008 so I am still relatively new; however, with the help of my wonderful co-workers I am getting acquainted with the life and culture at UWSEM.
I was born and raised in Metro Detroit; however, I spent the last 6 years in Washington DC going to college and working for the federal government. I am very happy to be back in the Detroit area and working for such an incredible organization with the most caring employees .
I am a Public Policy Associate working on basic needs.
UWSEM defines basic needs as food, clothing, shelter, and health care.
Our number one basic needs policy priority is the Calling for 2-1-1 Act (H.R. 211 & S. 211). The Calling for 2-1-1 Act would provide funding for and facilitate nationwide access to the information and referral service of 2-1-1. For more information on our local 2-1-1 call center please see: http://www.uwsem.org/211/ .
Currently the Calling for 2-1-1 Act is in committee in both the House and Senate. Both Senator Levin and Senator Stabenow have co-signed the Senate Bill; however, there are no co-sponsors on the House side, YET!
On February 11th many United Way staff and volunteers descended onto Capitol Hill and advocated around the Calling for 2-1-1 Act. This event was a huge success and helped to educate and gain support from legislators around the Calling for 2-1-1 Act. In connection with this event, we are working to secure co-sponsors of H.R. 211 from Southeastern Michigan congressional delegates.
In the future I will go in depth on specific issues I am working on and why they are a priority for UWSEM. I will also use this blog to provide updates on current legislation important to UWSEM's basic needs priorities.
President Obama ahs signed the Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2009, and has forecasted what the Stimulus Package will do for Michigan.
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