ACT NOW TO SAVE ESSENTIAL PROGRAMS!
West Central Missouri Community Action Agency (“West Central”) is sounding the alarm following the release of the President’s FY2026 budget proposal, which eliminates funding for key programs that serve thousands of families across rural Missouri. These include the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG), the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), and potentially the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP).
“These proposed cuts would devastate working families, seniors, and communities already on the edge,” said Mary Lou Schussler, CEO of West Central. “From keeping the heat on to keeping a roof overhead, these programs provide stability and opportunity. They are not excess—they are essential.”
Contact your elected officials (click here for link) to voice support for these essential services and ensure rural families aren’t left behind. Click here for a sample letter.
Top Ten Tips for Calling Your Legislator
- Plan Your Message: Keep it concise and clear. Know your request, like “Vote yes on HB123,” and prepare key points beforehand.
- Share Your Story: Personal experiences make your message impactful. Relate the issue to your community or personal life.
- Make the Call: Call during district hours if possible; legislators may be more attentive in their home district.
- Speak to Staff or Leave a Message: If your legislator is unavailable, talk to a staff member or leave a respectful message.
- Identify Yourself as a Constituent: Start by stating you live in their district to gain more responsiveness.
- Make Your Case: Clearly state your position, ask for their stance, and provide supporting points.
- Say Thank You: Whether they agree or not, thank them for their time and express your continued interest in the issue.
- Recruit Others: Encourage friends or colleagues to call. Legislators take note when many constituents reach out.
- Report the Call: If part of a campaign, inform the organizing group to help track impact.
- Call Again: Follow up as the bill progresses; frequent calls show commitment.
Other Effective Ways to Contact Legislators:
- Phone Calls: Best for quick, direct communication on urgent matters.
- Emails: Ideal for detailed sharing or follow-up after calls or meetings.
- Letters: Formal and effective in reinforcing your position.
- In-Person Meetings: Useful for building relationships and providing in-depth perspectives (schedule in advance).
- Social Media: Follow and tag your legislator to publicly share your stance.
Stay Engaged: Frequency Matters
- Consistent Communication: Ongoing contact demonstrates dedication.
- Follow-Up: After calls or meetings, send a thank-you note and reiterate your points.
- Multiple Contacts: The more a legislator hears from constituents, the more likely they are to prioritize the issue.
Key Tips for All Communications:
- Be Prepared: Know the bill number, your position, and relevant facts.
- Be Respectful: Always treat staff and legislators with courtesy.
- Be Clear and Concise: Quickly state your position and why it matters.
- Be Specific: Use personal examples or data to support your views.
- Make an Ask: Request a clear action, such as support, opposition, co-sponsorship, or a vote on the bill.
