September 11, 2008 a number of non-profit and community-based organizations from throughout the City of Fresno hosted a Mayoral Candidates Forum. This allowed candidates Henry Perea and Ashley Swearengin a chance to meet with the public and field questions in regards to how they intend to lead Fresno as Mayor. The focus of the forum looked at poverty and related issues.

One of the sponsoring agencies Fresno Works for Better Health Advocacy Center, also used this day and forum to release a Community Plan. Titled A Community Plan to Support Economic, Social, and Political Equality in the City of Fresno the purpose of the plan is to provide a look at poverty from the perspective of necessary policy at the local, state, and national levels based on surveys from residents in specifically identified Fresno zip codes.

The survey of 150 residents identified their top five areas of concern: gang violence and associated crimes was number one. The remaining concerns in order include: 2) lack of jobs, 3) drug activity and usage, 4) street and road conditions, and 5) affordable housing.

A complete copy of the Plan, which includes survey methods, analysis and recommendations, and a list of the zip codes surveyed is attached. You can also learn more about Fresno Works for Better Health Advocacy Center by visiting their website at www.fwbh.org, or see more of their publications - just click on the logo. 

FWBH_COMMUNITY PLAN FINAL.pdf (878.83 kb)