Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission - March 26, 2024
Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Regular Meeting of the Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission - Hybrid meeting format, in-person at City Hall & Online/Virtual via WebEx
REGULAR MEETING of the HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY-OF-LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION TUESDAY, MARCH 26th, 2024, at 6:00 P.M. CST CITY HALL, BOARDS & COMMISSIONS RM #1101 301 W. 2ND STREET, AUSTIN, TX 78701 MEETING AGENDA Some members of the Hispanic/Latino Quality-of-life Resource Advisory Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Alejandra Mireles at (Community Services Program Coordinator, Equity Office) at (512) 978-1793 or alejandra.mireles@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMISSIONERS Daniela Silva Amanda Afifi Vanessa Maldonado Ivanna Neri Kevin M Jackson Jr. Lyssette Galvan Sharon Vigil Jesus Perales Leonor Vargas Dulce Castañeda Eliza May AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: 1. Approve the minutes of the COMMISSION’S REGULAR MEETING on FEBRUARY 27th, 2024. 1 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for Supporting Hispanic/Latino College Graduates. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for the Family Stabilization Program. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for Re-Entry Programs. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for Immigrant Legal Services. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Programs That Support Children and Youth. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for Housing Stabilization Programs. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for Early Childhood Education and Development. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for Medical Clinics. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for Language Access. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for iMOMS and Women’s Mind at Ease Conference. WORKING GROUPS/COMMITTEE UPDATES 12. Budget & Policy Priorities Workgroup – Updates from the last workgroup meeting related to policy matters and the FY 2024-25 budget. (Amanda Afifi, Sharon Vigil, Jesus Perales, Dulce Castañeda, and Leonor Vargas) Language Access Workgroup – Updates from the workgroup on issues pertaining to their assignment. (Amanda Afifi, Dulce Castaneda, Vanessa Maldonado, Daniela Silva, and …
REGULAR MEETING of the HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY-OF-LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION TUESDAY, MARCH 26th, 2024, at 6:00 P.M. CST CITY HALL, BOARDS & COMMISSIONS RM #1101 301 W. 2ND STREET, AUSTIN, TX 78701 REVISED AGENDA Some members of the Hispanic/Latino Quality-of-life Resource Advisory Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Alejandra Mireles at (Community Services Program Coordinator, Equity Office) at (512) 978-1793 or alejandra.mireles@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMISSIONERS Daniela Silva Amanda Afifi Vanessa Maldonado Ivanna Neri Kevin M Jackson Jr. Lyssette Galvan Sharon Vigil Jesus Perales Leonor Vargas Dulce Castañeda Eliza May AGENDA REVISED CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: 1. Approve the minutes of the COMMISSION’S REGULAR MEETING on FEBRUARY 27th, 2024. 1 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for Supporting Hispanic/Latino College Graduates. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for the Family Stabilization Program. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for Re-Entry Programs. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for Immigrant Legal Services. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Programs That Support Children and Youth. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for Housing Stabilization Programs. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for Early Childhood Education and Development. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for Medical Clinics. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for Language Access. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for iMOMS and Women’s Mind at Ease Conference. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for Increase Funding for Community Navigators in the Economic Development Department’s Arts Funding Programs. WORKING GROUPS/COMMITTEE UPDATES 13. Budget & Policy Priorities Workgroup – Updates from the last workgroup meeting related to policy matters and the FY 2024-25 budget. (Amanda Afifi, Sharon Vigil, Jesus Perales, Dulce Castañeda, and Leonor Vargas) …
HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240326-XXX Date: March 26, 2024 Subject: FY24-25 Budget Recommendation – Supporting On-Point Reentry Consortium Motioned By: Commissioner Lyssette Galvan Seconded By: Commissioner Amanda Afifi Recommendation On-Point Reentry Consortium (OPRC) stands out as a pioneering nonprofit, dedicated to empowering individuals who have been impacted by the judicial system to redefine their lives through successful reentry. Among the most vulnerable groups in our city, these individuals more than often are from diverse and underserved communities. By participating in OPRC, these individuals not only rebuild their lives but also become effective and contributing members of our community, enriching its fabric through their newfound skills and experiences. To address their needs effectively, the commission strongly advocates for funding to support one full-time employee (FTE) and programming at OPRC. Description of Recommendation to Council Allocate funding for an Executive Director at On-Point Reentry Consortium; $75,000, this includes salary, fringe benefits, and overhead costs. Allocate funding for services and programming at On-Point Reentry Consortium; $25,000. Rationale: According to the Texas Criminal Justice Data Snapshot by the Bureau of Justice Assistance at the US Department of Justice and Justice Center with The Council of State Governments, 15% of individuals who exited the judicial system in 2019 cycled back into the system within three years. Therefore, ensuring successful reintegration into society, particularly through wraparound services, is imperative to mitigate recidivism rates. The On-Point Reentry Consortium (OPRC) stands as a unique beacon in Austin and Texas, boasting unparalleled expertise and experience. Comprised of BIPOC women leaders trained by the National Institute of Corrections and the Department of Justice, OPRC’s work is paramount, especially in a state like Texas with high incarceration rates. It serves as a vital resource to reduce recidivism and reintegrate judicially impacted individuals into communities, tapping into an underutilized workforce pool. In the past year, OPRC achieved remarkable milestones: Serving approximately 600 judicially impacted individuals through tailored reentry- specific training, consulting, and coaching services, aiding them to rebuilding their lives and careers. 1 of 3 Donating over 3,600 hours of invaluable time and expertise, valued at more than $370,000, to sustain programming and support clients, despite lacking paid FTEs. Securing free office space from three esteemed community organizations, signifying recognition of OPRC’s value and impact while fostering collaboration. Training and certifying 80 community providers in evidence-based training from the Department of Justice …
HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240326-10 Seconded By: Motioned By: Date: March 26, 2024 Subject: FY25 Budget Recommendations Family Stabilization Program as a Mechanism for Promoting Housing Stability Recommendation Affordability is an issue that continues to come up year after year, and it was the most common issue expressed by residents at all three Quality of Life Townhalls. People continue to see increases in rent and housing costs. The family stabilization program offers more flexible access to housing support, accords more choice and dignity, reduces discrimination, and offers more efficient and cost-effective housing. The current pilot shows funds are primarily helping Latino/a/x and Black families in the Eastern crescent. Gentrification has pushed families out of the areas they have been living in, some for generations. These permanent funds help keep people in their communities. Additionally, the program is also helping families whose communication is in a language other than English. Spanish was the second most common language requested on enrollment forms. D R A F T Rationale: According to findings from a recent brief from the Urban Institute titled Guaranteed Income as a Mechanism for Promoting Housing Stability, unrestricted cash investment addresses gaps and deficits in policies designed to address America’s housing affordability crisis. The brief reported, “Insights from a research review and policymaker interviews suggest that strategically applied cash relief could accomplish the following: ● Establish the Family Stabilization Grants as a permanent City of Austin program ● Expand funding to $3 million 1. Offer renters facing one-time or intermittent housing shocks more flexible access to Description of Recommendation to Council 2. Accord more choice and dignity to any renter in need of housing support. 3. Reduce exposure to voucher discrimination and offer more housing choices to housing support. marginalized populations. 4. Provide increased housing access to excluded workers. 5. Offer more efficient and cost-effective housing help to those in urgent need now.” According to UpTogether’s Central Texas 12-Month Pilot of the Strength-Based Approach: Final Report, “Between July 2021 and March 2022 members decreased their reliance on government subsidies. Fewer members applied for subsidies, vouchers, or other similar housing assistance (from 27% to 19%). The percentage of members receiving any type of government housing assistance was cut by half (16% to 8%).” Cash is an efficient and equitable form of housing assistance. UpTogether uncovered on a previous report that only 16% of members were receiving housing …
Motioned By: Date: March 26, 2024 HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240326-13 Supporting Early Childhood Education and Development Funding Subject: FY24 Budget Recommendations Description of Recommendation to Council ● $1.5 M Austin Public Health multi-year allocation to Early Childhood Education and Recommendation Early childhood educators, caregivers and parents of young children deserve livable wages and affordable childcare: the two are not mutually exclusive. Local governments are crucial to investing/highlighting early childhood educators especially when state and federal governments are not. Childcare is a public good, it is economic infrastructure. Seconded By: D R A F T parents with high needs they are available ○ $500,000 Pilot early childhood mini-grants providing emergency financial relief for home-based licensed providers and Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) caregivers; Center Based Care ○ Earmark $250,000 to fund a future contract with a qualified nonprofit, selected through a competitive bidding process, to provide health insurance support and ACA website navigation assistance, specifically for the early childhood workforce. Support specific to Early Childhood providers can include, but is not limited to: ■ Education on required documentation ■ Ability to schedule appointments with Early Childhood providers when care providers and families (toys, curriculum, technology, etc) available at APH Neighborhood Centers and APL branch libraries. ○ $250,000 to establish a no-cost lending library & EC resource center for child ■ Directly dispersed to childcare centers & registered licensed to support ○ $500,000 Early childhood education and development scholarships Development funding: ● Recommend updating the eligibility focus to include home-based childcare providers (licensed and FFN). Rationale: The cost of childcare is one of the biggest expenses families face. It is a daunting task to find affordable, high quality childcare. According to UT News, “The average cost for infant care in Texas is $777 per month, or $9,324 per year — nearly 14% of the state’s median household income of $67,321 and more expensive than a year of in-state tuition at a four-year public college.” Every child in Austin should be able to access high quality childcare without causing financial strain on the family. Childcare providers may encounter financial burdens that make it difficult for them to provide services on a consistent basis. Unexpected issues can derail childcare services. It can take time to navigate insurance claims while continuing to try and run a business. There are times the home-based childcare center may have to close as a …
HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240326-10 Family Stabilization Program as a Mechanism for Promoting Housing Stability Date: March 26, 2024 Subject: FY25 Budget Recommendations Motioned By: We continue to hear from the community concerns regarding underfunding of immigration legal services. Only a small number of individuals are served with the current funding. There are very few organizations in Austin that have the ability to provide legal services to our immigrant communities pro bono. One of the service providers is American Gateways. They are currently only able to meet 25% of the need. The need for legal services continues to expand due to the complicated immigration legal system. Seconded By: D R A F T WHEREAS, we continue to hear from the community that legal services funding is crucial; and WHEREAS, there are immigrants who need access to counsel, and cannot afford attorneys. This is especially so for immigrants facing removal proceedings; and WHEREAS, in a time of changes in immigration policy, people have more need for legal representation, as it has become very complicated; and WHEREAS, it is essential that immigrant communities obtain accurate advice and assistance; and WHEREAS, the people most impacted by the complicated changes in immigration policy are low-income immigrants; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin funds legal services for low income immigrants who are Austin residents, and there is still unmet need; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Hispanic Latino Quality of Life recommends that the $490,000 allocated in FY 2023-2024 for immigration legal services become a permanent budget allocation in FY 2024-2025 and beyond. Vote For: Against: Abstain: Absent: Attest: Amanda Afifi, Chair Commissioner Neri, Commissioner Silva, Commissioner Afifi, Commissioner Vargas, Commissioner Perales, Commissioner Castañeda, Commissioner Galvan, Commissioner Jackson Jr., Commissioner May, Commissioner Vigil, Commissioner Maldonado D R A F T
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: (20240326‐XXX) (XXX is the agenda item number): Housing Stabilization Budget Recommendation WHEREAS, many low‐income families may be one hardship away from losing housing or other basic needs; and WHEREAS, the majority of zip codes where the median family income is 60% MFI and below are areas with high populations of Latine residents; and WHEREAS, Latine Austinites face high levels of housing insecurity, creating an even heavier burden on other household expenses such as food, utilities, costs associated with schooling, medical expenses, and childcare; and WHEREAS, falling behind on rent and getting evicted leads to increased barriers to accessing stable housing in the future and often leads to Austinites falling into homelessness; and WHEREAS, having access to one‐time direct cash assistance to use for emergency needs outside of rental, mortgage, or tax payments could help alleviate emergency gaps that force households to choose between paying for rent/mortgage or covering other essential expenses; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission encourages the Austin City Council to allocate funds towards launching an emergency supplemental assistance pilot program for low‐income residents. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: Attest: _____________________________________________ (Staff or board member can sign)
HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240326-13 Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services that Support Children and Youth in Austin Date: March 26, 2024 Subject: FY24 Budget Recommendations Motioned By: Recommendation Residents have expressed continued concerns regarding the lack of culturally and linguistically appropriate services for children and youth. The City of Austin needs to ensure equitable funding regarding early childhood services, mental health services, and recreational programs, and educational programs. Seconded By: D R A F T Description of Recommendation to Council ● Increase Austin Public Health’s funding for two-generation bilingual early childhood ● Increase Austin Public Health’s funding for child and youth mental health services that serve Hispanic/Latino clients in the client’s preferred language. ● Allocate $550,000 for culturally and linguistically diverse arts programs, including programs. Academia Cuauhtli. ● Allocate $425,000 for college readiness programs that are culturally and linguistically appropriate, including College Access Program (CAP Program). Rationale: Regarding early childhood services, the City of Austin has an agreement with Any Baby Can of Austin, Inc. to provide early childhood services to enable families to achieve self-sufficiency. These services are provided to residents through agencies that comprise the Ready Families Collaborative. There are a few service providers subcontracted to provide two-generation bilingual early childhood education services. AVANCE-Austin is one of the agencies tasked to provide such services. They provide parenting and early education classes; home-visitation and case management; transportation; and food for clients. The Camp Fire USA Balcones Council provides the Play to Learn two-generation parenting program. The Literacy Coalition of Central Texas provides the Playing and Learning Strategies (PALS) program in multiple sites and classrooms. Communities In Schools provides comprehensive dual generation family literacy programming, PAT home visiting, and Incredible Years group parenting classes. These programs combined serve a small number of clients. This is not adequate funding for high quality Spanish and bilingual (Spanish and English) early childhood education and services that also includes case management, parenting education, literacy and educational programming for parents, and community support. These programs help the child and parents by providing them with support in their preferred language. These programs help families establish networks of support. Regarding children and youth mental health services, there are very few programs and services that either offer clinicians that can effectively and competently provide services to predominantly marginalized populations or that provide low-cost sliding scales services and almost none that offer both. According to …
Description of Recommendation to Council HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240326-10 ● Increase funding for a total of $2.4 million. ● Provide bilingual stipend to those required to provide services in multiple languages. Renew and increase Austin Public Health’s funding for AISD Parent Support Specialists (PSS). The additional funding will help increase base pay for PSSs and PSSs lead positions. Date: March 26, 2024 Subject: FY25 Budget Recommendations Motioned by: Recommendation Seconded by: Expand Funding for AISD Parent Support Specialists D R A F T The City of Austin has an interlocal agreement with Austin Independent School District for the provision of resources connecting parents and families to family-centered and other social services. AISD Parent Support Specialists, who are funded 50% by the City of Austin, are placed in Title I schools. PSSs are charged to identify, develop, and engage parents in their child’s education by providing parent and family support, conducting communications and outreach, and creating parent leadership opportunities. AISD relies on PSSs to educate and refer students and their families to City and County resources, and to collaborate with social services community partners to provide support to the families and help to alleviate stressors. Their work helps improve maternal, child, and adolescent health outcomes. PSSs annually organize and conduct approximately 3,000 parent education events, with approximately 80,000 parents and guardians in attendance. PSSs organize and conduct approximately 600 life skills events annually, with approximately 17,000 parents in attendance Background and Rationale: Parent Support Specialists are rooted in the community and have meaningful relationships with the families they serve. Many are bilingual, and they communicate with families in their preferred language. The skills and relationships PSSs build and maintain are essential during times of crisis. PSSs provided support to the community during the pandemic, winter storm Uri, fires, etc.. Parent Support Specialists play a critical role in the communities they serve; however, there continue to be job openings. One reason for open positions is the low salary offered for this position. Current openings for PSSs show a salary of $22 per hour, which is an annual income of $36,784. Austin homes are expensive with a median home price of $430,000. The February 2024 median rental price was $2,183. The positions are partially or fully grant funded, and employment is contingent upon availability of funds. Ensuring one funding source that takes into account the rising cost of …
Date: March 26, 2024 Subject: FY25 Budget Recommendations Motioned by: Recommendation Texas has one of the highest rates of uninsured residents. All people should be able to access primary care on a consistent basis. The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission recommends funding direct patient care for uninsured resettled refugees, immigrants, and other underserved people. HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240326-10 Free Primary Healthcare for Uninsured Resettled Refugees, Immigrants, and Other Underserved People Seconded by: D R A F T Austin Public Health currently funds case management for social services and medical case management for patients through their Social Services Grant. This program is for Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. However, this funding cannot provide direct patient care nor is it targeted to help the Hispanic/Latino communities. The City of Austin Equity Office awarded a $10,000 mini grant for direct patient care activities for Immigrant Inclusion. 25% of their patients are Hispanic/Latino, and they tracked roughly 3,000 minutes of Spanish language interpreter time. The services are provided by Hope Clinic. Hope Clinic provides free primary healthcare, mostly to resettled refugees. In order for patients to qualify for services, they must have no health insurance and live in the Austin area. All their services are free, including acute primary care of common illnesses, chronic disease care, prescription medication, over the counter medication, basic lab work, basic imaging, flu shots, medical supplies, nutrition education, well-woman exams, preventative care, school physicals, and limited physical therapy. They have a small pharmacy on site. The current one time mini grant is not enough funding to provide direct patient care. Description of Recommendation to Council ● $100,000 in funds for direct patient care activities and operations Background and Rationale: Vote: For: Against: Abstain: Absent: Attest: Commissioner Neri, Commissioner Silva, Commissioner Afifi, Commissioner Vargas, Commissioner Perales, Commissioner Castañeda, Commissioner Galvan, Commissioner Jackson Jr., Commissioner May, Commissioner Vigil, Commissioner Maldonado D R A F T _________________________________ Amanda Afifi, Chair
HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240326-13 Language Access Motioned By: Recommendation Date: March 26, 2024 Subject: FY24 Budget Recommendations Description of Recommendation to Council ● Allocate funding to hire on-site full-time interpreters All City of Austin residents should be able to participate in City Council meetings regardless of language. The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission recommends hiring full-time city clerk interpreters to ensure equitable access to participation in meetings. Seconded By: D R A F T Currently, people wishing to participate in City Council meetings and who need an interpreter, must request an interpreter 48 hours in advance. Unfortunately, this policy isolates community members who are not English speakers. Some residents are unaware of this policy, and they show up to the meeting expecting to participate. However, they are unpleasantly surprised to find out that an interpreter is not available, and they will not be heard. This extra step of requesting an interpreter also causes some people to decide not to participate in meetings. People may decide not to put in a request to participate because they are still unsure if they will be able to attend. This policy pushes them to decide to forgo participation because they are unsure if they will make it to the meeting that day. English speakers are able to decide at the last minute to participate in a meeting. This process should not isolate members of our community. Having on-site full-time interpreters will ensure all residents have accessibility to City Council meetings. Rationale: Vote For: Against: Abstain: Absent: Attest: Amanda Afifi, Chair D R A F T
HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240326-13 Supporting Women who Live in Housing Authority of the City of Austin (HACA) Communities Date: March 26, 2024 Subject: FY24 Budget Recommendations Motioned By: Recommendation The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission recommends supporting programs and events for women living in Austin Housing Authority communities. Description of Recommendation to Council ● Allocate $50,000 to support empowerment programs and opportunities for women living in HACA communities ○ $25,000 in scholarships for women to attend the Annual Women Conference ○ $25,000 to hold group events and workshops throughout the year Seconded By: D R A F T Rationale: The Annual Women Conference is held in April. Women from all HACA units in Travis County gather for an empowerment event. Women empowerment should not be limited to one conference. Events and workshops should also be held throughout the year. iMOMS is an organization that empowers single mothers, grandmothers, and sisters who live in Austin Housing Authority communities. iMOMS started as a small group of 20 women who came together to support each other during the pandemic. The group has grown to 64 women. The group provides resources, information, and skills that help women rise and achieve their goals. Vote For: Against: Abstain: Absent: Attest: Amanda Afifi, Chair D R A F T
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Commission Recommendation Number: (20240326‐2): FY 2024‐25 Budget for Supporting Hispanic/Latino College Graduates. WHEREAS, SB 17 passed in the 88th regular legislative session, became effective January 1, 2024, and prohibits diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) offices, policies, and programs at state funded universities in Texas. WHEREAS, because of implantation of SB 17 the Multicultural Engagement Center, which was home to the Afrikan American Affairs, Asian Desi Pacific Islanders American Collective, Latinx Community Affairs, Native American and Indigenous Collective, and the Queer Trans Black Indigenous People of Color Alliance was abruptly closed without student input. WHEREAS, in addition to the closure of the Multicultural Engagement Center, Latinx Community Affairs lost all funding from the university for programming including Latinx Graduation which was the only bilingual graduation ceremony for students and had 300‐350 graduates participating every Spring semester. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Commission encourages the Austin City Council to allocate $65,000 to the Latinx Community Affairs organization to support a city wide Latinx graduation and community engagement events. NOW, THEREFORE, BE FURTHER RESOLVED that the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Commission encourages the Austin City Council to explore all available means of supporting a city wide Latinx graduation and community engagement events including support securing venues, fee waivers, and necessary equipment. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: Attest: _____________________________________________ (Staff or board member can sign)
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Commission Recommendation Number: (20240326-2): FY 2024-25 Budget for Supporting Hispanic/Latino College Graduates. WHEREAS, SB 17 passed in the 88th regular legislative session, became effective January 1, 2024, and prohibits diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) offices, policies, and programs at state funded universities in Texas. WHEREAS, because of implantation of SB 17 the Multicultural Engagement Center, which was home to the Afrikan American Affairs, Asian Desi Pacific Islanders American Collective, Latinx Community Affairs, Native American and Indigenous Collective, and the Queer Trans Black Indigenous People of Color Alliance was abruptly closed without student input. WHEREAS, in addition to the closure of the Multicultural Engagement Center, Latinx Community Affairs lost all funding from the university for programming including Latinx Graduation which was the only bilingual graduation ceremony for students and had 300-350 graduates participating every Spring semester. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Commission encourages the Austin City Council to allocate $65,000 to the Latinx Community Affairs organization to support a city wide Latinx graduation and community engagement events. NOW, THEREFORE, BE FURTHER RESOLVED that the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Commission encourages the Austin City Council to explore all available means of supporting a city wide Latinx graduation and community engagement events including support securing venues, fee waivers, and necessary equipment. Date of Approval: _____March 26, 2024________________________ Vote: 7-0 For: Commissioner Silva, Commissioner Afifi, Commissioner Vargas, Commissioner Perales, Commissioner Castañeda, Commissioner Galvan, Commissioner Jackson Jr. Absent: Commissioner Neri, Commissioner May, Commissioner Maldonado Against: None Abstain: None Attest: Amanda Afifi, Chair
HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240326-3 Family Stabilization Program as a Mechanism for Promoting Housing Stability Date: March 26, 2024 Subject: FY25 Budget Recommendations Recommendation Motioned By: Commissioner Silva Seconded By: Commissioner Perales Affordability is an issue that continues to come up year after year, and it was the most common issue expressed by residents at all three Quality of Life Townhalls. People continue to see increases in rent and housing costs. The family stabilization program offers more flexible access to housing support, accords more choice and dignity, reduces discrimination, and offers more efficient and cost-effective housing. The current pilot shows funds are primarily helping Latino/a/x and Black families in the Eastern crescent. Gentrification has pushed families out of the areas they have been living in, some for generations. These permanent funds help keep people in their communities. Additionally, the program is also helping families whose communication is in a language other than English. Spanish was the second most common language requested on enrollment forms. Description of Recommendation to Council ● Establish the Family Stabilization Grants as a permanent City of Austin program ● Expand funding to $3 million Rationale According to findings from a recent brief from the Urban Institute titled Guaranteed Income as a Mechanism for Promoting Housing Stability, unrestricted cash investment addresses gaps and deficits in policies designed to address America’s housing affordability crisis. The brief reported, “Insights from a research review and policymaker interviews suggest that strategically applied cash relief could accomplish the following: 1. Offer renters facing one-time or intermittent housing shocks more flexible access to housing support. 2. Accord more choice and dignity to any renter in need of housing support. 3. Reduce exposure to voucher discrimination and offer more housing choices to marginalized populations. 4. Provide increased housing access to excluded workers. 5. Offer more efficient and cost-effective housing help to those in urgent need now.” According to UpTogether’s Central Texas 12-Month Pilot of the Strength-Based Approach: Final Report, “Between July 2021 and March 2022 members decreased their reliance on government subsidies. Fewer members applied for subsidies, vouchers, or other similar housing assistance (from 27% to 19%). The percentage of members receiving any type of government housing assistance was cut by half (16% to 8%).” Cash is an efficient and equitable form of housing assistance. UpTogether uncovered on a previous report that only 16% of members were receiving housing assistance. …
HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240326-4 Supporting Reentry Programs Date: March 26, 2024 Subject: FY24-25 Budget Recommendation – Supporting Reentry Programs Motioned By: Commissioner Lyssette Galvan Seconded By: Commissioner Daniela Silva Recommendation Historically, On-Point Reentry Consortium (OPRC) stands out as a pioneering nonprofit, dedicated to empowering individuals who have been impacted by the judicial system to redefine their lives through successful reentry. Among the most vulnerable groups in our city, these individuals more than often are from diverse and underserved communities. By participating in OPRC, these individuals not only rebuild their lives but also become effective and contributing members of our community, enriching its fabric through their newfound skills and experiences. To address their needs effectively, the commission strongly advocates for funding to support one full-time employee (FTE) and programming at OPRC. Description of Recommendation to Council ● Allocate $100,000 to reentry programs. Rationale: According to the Texas Criminal Justice Data Snapshot by the Bureau of Justice Assistance at the US Department of Justice and Justice Center with The Council of State Governments, 15% of individuals who exited the judicial system in 2019 cycled back into the system within three years. Therefore, ensuring successful reintegration into society, particularly through wraparound services, is imperative to mitigate recidivism rates. Historically, the On-Point Reentry Consortium (OPRC) stands as a unique beacon in Austin and Texas, boasting unparalleled expertise and experience. Comprised of BIPOC women leaders trained by the National Institute of Corrections and the Department of Justice, OPRC’s work is paramount, especially in a state like Texas with high incarceration rates. It serves as a vital resource to reduce recidivism and reintegrate judicially impacted individuals into communities, tapping into an underutilized workforce pool. In the past year, OPRC achieved remarkable milestones: ● Serving approximately 600 judicially impacted individuals through tailored reentry-specific training, consulting, and coaching services, aiding them to rebuilding their lives and careers. 1 of 3 ● Donating over 3,600 hours of invaluable time and expertise, valued at more than $370,000, to sustain programming and support clients, despite lacking paid FTEs. ● Securing free office space from three esteemed community organizations, signifying recognition of OPRC’s value and impact while fostering collaboration. ● Training and certifying 80 community providers in evidence-based training from the Department of Justice and the National Institute for Corrections, called Reentry Employment Specialist. ● Organizing a Reentry Community Resource Fair in partnership with Findhelp.org, Workforce Solutions, …
HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240326-5 Immigrant Legal Services Date: March 26, 2024 Subject: FY25 Budget Recommendations Motioned By: Commissioner Vargas Seconded By: Commissioner Galvan We continue to hear from the community concerns regarding underfunding of immigration legal services. Only a small number of individuals are served with the current funding. There are very few organizations in Austin that have the ability to provide legal services to our immigrant communities pro bono. One of the service providers is American Gateways. They are currently only able to meet 25% of the need. The need for legal services continues to expand due to the complicated immigration legal system. WHEREAS, we continue to hear from the community that legal services funding is crucial; and WHEREAS, there are immigrants who need access to counsel, and cannot afford attorneys. This is especially so for immigrants facing removal proceedings; and WHEREAS, in a time of changes in immigration policy, people have more need for legal representation, as it has become very complicated; and WHEREAS, it is essential that immigrant communities obtain accurate advice and assistance; and WHEREAS, the people most impacted by the complicated changes in immigration policy are low-income immigrants; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin funds legal services for low income immigrants who are Austin residents, and there is still unmet need; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Hispanic Latino Quality of Life recommends funding of $700,000 to continue services currently being provided along with a suggested $150,000 increase to meet community legal needs from the closure of nonprofits serving refugees in our community. For: Commissioner Silva, Commissioner Afifi, Commissioner Vargas, Commissioner Perales, Commissioner Castañeda, Commissioner Galvan, Commissioner Jackson Jr. Absent: Commissioner Neri, Commissioner May, Commissioner Maldonado Vote: 7-0 Against: None Abstain: None Attest: Amanda Afifi, Chair
HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240326-6 Culturally and Linguistically Research-Based Services that Support Children and Youth in Austin Date: March 26, 2024 Subject: FY24 Budget Recommendations Recommendation Motioned By: Commissioner Vargas Seconded By: Commissioner Perales Residents have expressed continued concerns regarding the lack of culturally and linguistically research-based services for children and youth. The City of Austin needs to ensure equitable funding regarding early childhood services, mental health services, and recreational programs, and educational programs. Description of Recommendation to Council ● Increase Austin Public Health’s funding for two-generation bilingual early childhood ● Increase Austin Public Health’s funding for children and youth mental health services that serve Hispanic/Latino clients in the client’s preferred language. ● Allocate $550,000 for culturally and linguistically diverse arts programs, for example programs. Academia Cuauhtli. ● Allocate $425,000 for college readiness programs that are culturally and linguistically appropriate, for example College Access Program (CAP Program). Rationale Regarding early childhood services, the City of Austin has an agreement with Any Baby Can of Austin, Inc. to provide early childhood services to enable families to achieve self-sufficiency. These services are provided to residents through agencies that comprise the Ready Families Collaborative. There are a few service providers subcontracted to provide two-generation bilingual early childhood education services. AVANCE-Austin is one of the agencies tasked to provide such services. They provide parenting and early education classes; home-visitation and case management; transportation; and food for clients. The Camp Fire USA Balcones Council provides the Play to Learn two-generation parenting program. The Literacy Coalition of Central Texas provides the Playing and Learning Strategies (PALS) program in multiple sites and classrooms. Communities In Schools provides comprehensive dual generation family literacy programming, PAT home visiting, and Incredible Years group parenting classes. These programs combined serve a small number of clients. This is not adequate funding for high quality Spanish and bilingual (Spanish and English) early childhood education and services that also includes case management, parenting education, literacy and educational programming for parents, and community support. These programs help the child and parents by providing them with support in their preferred language. These programs help families establish networks of support. Regarding children and youth mental health services, there are very few programs and services that either offer clinicians that can effectively and competently provide services to predominantly marginalized populations or that provide low-cost sliding scales services and almost none that offer both. According …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: (20240326-7): Housing Stabilization Budget Recommendation WHEREAS, many low-income families may be one hardship away from losing housing or other basic needs; and WHEREAS, the majority of zip codes where the median family income is 60% MFI and below are areas with high populations of Hispanic/Latine residents; and WHEREAS, Hispanic/Latine Austinites face high levels of housing insecurity, creating an even heavier burden on other household expenses such as food, utilities, costs associated with schooling, medical expenses, and childcare; and WHEREAS, falling behind on rent and getting evicted leads to increased barriers to accessing stable housing in the future and often leads to Austinites falling into homelessness; and WHEREAS, having access to one-time direct cash assistance to use for emergency needs outside of rental, mortgage, or tax payments could help alleviate emergency gaps that force households to choose between paying for rent/mortgage or covering other essential expenses; WHEREAS, many grassroots nonprofits in Austin have experience in responsibly distributing direct cash assistance to families in need, as was exemplified during Winter Storm Uri; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission encourages the Austin City Council to allocate $1,000,000 towards working with local nonprofits to launch an emergency supplemental assistance pilot program for low-income residents. Date of Approval: ____March 26, 2024_________________________ For: Commissioner Silva, Commissioner Afifi, Commissioner Vargas, Commissioner Perales, Commissioner Castañeda, Commissioner Galvan, Commissioner Jackson Jr. Vote: 7-1 Against: None Abstain: Commissioner Neri Absent: Commissioner May, Commissioner Maldonado Attest: Amanda Afifi, Chair
HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240326-8 Supporting Early Childhood Education and Development Funding Date: March 26, 2024 Subject: FY24 Budget Recommendations Recommendation Motioned By: Commissioner Perales Seconded By: Commissioner Castañeda Early childhood educators, caregivers and parents of young children deserve livable wages and affordable childcare: the two are not mutually exclusive. Local governments are crucial to investing/highlighting early childhood educators especially when state and federal governments are not. Childcare is a public good, it is economic infrastructure. Description of Recommendation to Council ● $1.5 M Austin Public Health multi-year allocation to Early Childhood Education and Development funding: ○ $500,000 Early childhood education and development scholarships ■ Directly dispersed to childcare centers & registered licensed to support parents with high needs ○ $500,000 Pilot early childhood mini-grants providing emergency financial relief for home-based licensed providers and Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) caregivers; Center Based Care ○ Earmark $250,000 to fund a future contract with a qualified nonprofit, selected through a competitive bidding process, to provide health insurance support and ACA website navigation assistance, specifically for the early childhood workforce. Support specific to Early Childhood providers can include, but is not limited to: ■ Education on required documentation ■ Ability to schedule appointments with Early Childhood providers when they are available ○ $250,000 to establish a no-cost lending library & EC resource center for child care providers and families (toys, curriculum, technology, etc) available at APH Neighborhood Centers and APL branch libraries. ● Recommend updating the eligibility focus to include home-based childcare providers (licensed and FFN). Rationale The cost of childcare is one of the biggest expenses families face. It is a daunting task to find affordable, high quality childcare. According to UT News, “The average cost for infant care in Texas is $777 per month, or $9,324 per year — nearly 14% of the state’s median household income of $67,321 and more expensive than a year of in-state tuition at a four-year public college.” Every child in Austin should be able to access high quality childcare without causing financial strain on the family. Childcare providers may encounter financial burdens that make it difficult for them to provide services on a consistent basis. Unexpected issues can derail childcare services. It can take time to navigate insurance claims while continuing to try and run a business. There are times the home-based childcare center may have to close as a result …
HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240326-9 Free Primary Healthcare for Uninsured Resettled Refugees, Immigrants, and Other Underserved People Date: March 26, 2024 Subject: FY25 Budget Recommendations Recommendation Motioned by: Commissioner Perales Seconded by: Commissioner Neri Texas has one of the highest rates of uninsured residents. All people should be able to access primary care on a consistent basis. The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission recommends funding direct patient care for uninsured resettled refugees, immigrants, and other underserved people. Description of Recommendation to Council ● $100,000 in funds for direct patient care activities and operations Background and Rationale: Austin Public Health currently funds case management for social services and medical case management for patients through their Social Services Grant. This program is for Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. However, this funding cannot provide direct patient care nor is it targeted to help the Hispanic/Latino communities. The City of Austin Equity Office awarded a $10,000 mini grant for direct patient care activities for Immigrant Inclusion. 25% of their patients are Hispanic/Latino, and they tracked roughly 3,000 minutes of Spanish language interpreter time. The services are provided by Hope Clinic. Hope Clinic provides free primary healthcare, mostly to resettled refugees. In order for patients to qualify for services, they must have no health insurance and live in the Austin area. All their services are free, including acute primary care of common illnesses, chronic disease care, prescription medication, over the counter medication, basic lab work, basic imaging, flu shots, medical supplies, nutrition education, well-woman exams, preventative care, school physicals, and limited physical therapy. They have a small pharmacy on site. The current one time mini grant is not enough funding to provide direct patient care. Vote: 8-0 For: Commissioner Neri, Commissioner Silva, Commissioner Afifi, Commissioner Vargas, Commissioner Perales, Commissioner Castañeda, Commissioner Galvan, Commissioner Jackson Jr. Against: None Abstain: None Attest: Absent: Commissioner May, Commissioner Maldonado _________________________________ Amanda Afifi, Chair
HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240326-10 Language Access Date: March 26, 2024 Subject: FY24 Budget Recommendations Recommendation Motioned By: Commissioner Silva Seconded By: Commissioner Galvan All City of Austin residents should be able to participate in City Council and Quality of Life commission meetings regardless of language. The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission recommends hiring full-time city clerk interpreters to ensure equitable access to participation in meetings. Description of Recommendation to Council ● Prioritize hiring of and maintain funding on-site full-time Spanish language interpreters ● Allocate funding for grassroots organizations to help educate the community about interpretation services available at the City of Austin Council and commission meetings ● Provide Spanish language interpretation services at Quality of Life Commission meetings either by hiring new staff or outsourcing via contractors and/or language line Rationale: Currently, people wishing to participate in City Council and Quality of Life commission meetings and who need an interpreter, must request an interpreter 48 hours in advance. Unfortunately, this policy isolates community members who are not English speakers. Some residents are unaware of this policy, and they show up to the meeting expecting to participate. However, they are unpleasantly surprised to find out that an interpreter is not available, and they will not be heard. This extra step of requesting an interpreter also causes some people to decide not to participate in meetings. People may decide not to put in a request to participate because they are still unsure if they will be able to attend. This policy pushes them to decide to forgo participation because they are unsure if they will make it to the meeting that day. English speakers are able to decide at the last minute to participate in a meeting. This process should not isolate members of our community. Having on-site full-time interpreters will ensure all residents have accessibility to City Council meetings. Last year, $100,000 was allocated in an amendment to fund a full-time position within the Communications and Public Information Office to provide Spanish interpretation services during Council meetings. The position has not yet been filled. For: Commissioner Neri, Commissioner Silva, Commissioner Afifi, Commissioner Vargas, Commissioner Perales, Commissioner Castañeda, Commissioner Galvan, Commissioner Jackson Jr. Absent: Commissioner May, Commissioner Maldonado Vote: 8-0 Against: None Abstain: None Attest: Amanda Afifi, Chair
HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240326-11 Supporting Women who Live in Housing Authority of the City of Austin (HACA) Communities Date: March 26, 2024 Subject: FY24 Budget Recommendations Recommendation Motioned By: Commissioner Perales Seconded By: Commissioner Neri The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission recommends supporting programs and events for women living in Austin Housing Authority communities. Description of Recommendation to Council ● Allocate $50,000 to support empowerment programs and opportunities for women living in HACA communities ○ $25,000 in scholarships for women to attend the Annual Women Conference ○ $25,000 to hold group events and workshops throughout the year The Annual Women Conference is held in April. Women from all HACA units in Travis County gather for an empowerment event. Women empowerment should not be limited to one conference. Events and workshops should also be held throughout the year. iMOMS is an organization that empowers single mothers, grandmothers, and sisters who live in Austin Housing Authority communities. iMOMS started as a small group of 20 women who came together to support each other during the pandemic. The group has grown to 64 women. The group provides resources, information, and skills that help women rise and achieve their goals. Rationale Vote: 6-2 For: Commissioner Neri, Commissioner Silva, Commissioner Afifi, Commissioner Perales, Commissioner Galvan, Commissioner Jackson Jr. Abstain: Commissioner Castañeda, Commissioner Vargas Absent: Commissioner May, Commissioner Maldonado Against: None Attest: Amanda Afifi, Chair
HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY-OF-LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The HISPANIC LATINO QUAITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION convened a REGULAR meeting on TUESDAY, MARCH 26rd, 2024 at 6:00 P.M. CST, in CITY OF AUSTIN BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM #1101 – CITY HALL (301 W. 2ND STREET; AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701). Chair AMANDA AFIFI called the HISPANIC LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION Meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Amanda Afifi (Chair) Daniela Silva Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Ivanna Neri (Co-Chair) Jesus Perales Leonor Vargas Kevin Jackson Commissioners Absent: Eliza May Vanessa Maldonado Staff in Attendance: Equity Office, Community Services Program Coordinator – Alejandra Mireles Office of City Clerk, Business Process Specialist – Christi Vitela CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. 1. Martha Cotera, communicates support for recommendation supporting Academia Cuauhtli (agenda item six). 1 2. 3. Carmen del Unda, communicates support for recommendation supporting Academia Cuauhtli (agenda item six). Emelio Zamora, communicates support for recommendation supporting Academia Cuauhtli (agenda item six). APPROVAL OF MINUTES: 4. Approve the minutes of the COMMISSION’S REGULAR MEETING on FEBRUARY 27th, 2024. The minutes were approved on COMMISSIONER JESUS PERALES’ motion, COMMISSIONER LYSETTEE GALVAN’s second on a 7-0 vote (Absent: Commissioners Vanessa Maldonado and Eliza May). DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for Supporting Hispanic/Latino College Graduates. Commissioners discuss and edit. Recommendation PASSESS on COMMISSIONER JESUS PERALES’ motion, COMMISSIONER AMANDA AFIFI’s second on a 7-0 vote (Absent: Commissioners Vanessa Maldonado and Eliza May). Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for the Family Stabilization Program. Commissioners discuss and edit. Recommendation PASSESS on COMMISSIONER DANIELA SILVA’s motion, COMMISSIONER JESUS PERALES’ second on a 7-0 vote (Absent: Commissioners Vanessa Maldonado and Eliza May). Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for Re-Entry Programs. Commissioners discuss and edit. Recommendation PASSESS on COMMISSIONER LYSETTE GALVAN’s motion, COMMISSIONER DANIELA SILVA’s second on a 7-0 vote (Absent: Commissioners Vanessa Maldonado and Eliza May). Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for Immigrant Legal Services. Commissioners discuss and edit. Recommendation PASSESS on COMMISSIONER LEONOR VARGAS’ motion, COMMISSIONER LYSETTE GALVAN’s second on a 7-0 vote (Absent: Commissioners Vanessa Maldonado and Eliza May). Approve a recommendation on …
