Types of Access Barriers to Community Resources
Community resources are intended to improve the lives of residents. This is particularly beneficial for low-income families who struggle to pay for utilities, health care, food and shelter. For example, a community free clinic will allow low-income families to get quality healthcare. Local mentoring agencies provide guidance to at-risk teenagers and young adults. However, there may be barriers of various types that keep some residents from gaining access to good community resources.
Other People Are Reading
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Lack of Knowledge
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Residents may not be aware of community resources. Community organizations should increase their visibility through print media, broadcast media and the Internet to get the message out. For example, a new advocacy group that tutors residents in preparation for the GED exam might visit community centers, hospitals, government agencies and private businesses to discuss its mission and get more residents involved.
Financial Barriers
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Financial troubles can create a barrier to access of community resources. According to the Organic Consumers Association, finances are one reason low-income families don't usually buy healthier foods. They say that due to other important financial commitments, such as housing and utilities, families buy less-expensive but often unhealthy foods. In addition, certain government-sponsored food benefit programs may impose restrictions on where food may be purchased, and this may not always include organic stores or farmer's markets.
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Language Barriers
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Politics may also play a role in the lack of access to community resources. For example, if local government decides not to implement bilingual education programs in the public schools, this hurts Hispanic children because they need a good understanding of English in order to succeed. Similarly, if a city decides to institute an English-only policy, this makes it much more difficult for Hispanic or other non-English-speaking families to access essential community resources.
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