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.