Located in:
c. 1. A description of the localities and populations for which projects of the type authorized by title V are most needed. (20 CFR 641.325 (d))
Current Narrative:
SCSEP projects are authorized in most localities in the Commonwealth. Three national grantees (AARP, NCOA and Goodwill) manage programs alongside the DARS state SCSEP. The number of SCSEP slots that each locality received is based on a formula that considers the number of individuals aged 55 and up who are at or below 125% of the federal poverty level, based on U.S. Census data. These slots are assigned by DOLETA. Grantees and sub-grantees strive to serve eligible participants under Priority of Service requirements. Priority of service is given to participants who fit one or more of the following descriptors:
Veterans and Qualified Spouses
Persons 65 or older
Individuals who:
-have a disability
-have limited English proficiency
-have low literacy skills
-reside in a rural area
-have low employment prospects
-fail to find employment through WIOA Title I services
-are homeless or at risk of homelessness
-formerly incarcerated
Authorized slot levels are based on U.S. Census levels alone. Authorized Slots can be seen in Appendix A. Modified slots are based on the highest available minimum wage, which in Virginia, is currently $12/hour. Modified slot levels can be seen in Appendix B.
Most of Virginia’s greatest community needs are driven by poverty. Virginia’s poverty level in 2020, per the U.S. Census Income and Poverty data, was 10.6%.
Per the U.S. Census Small Area Income and Poverty Estimates for 2020, the following localities have poverty levels above 20%.
| Locality | Poverty Level |
|---|---|
| Radford City | 25.6% |
| Lee County | 25.1% |
| Harrisonburg City | 25.0% |
| Greensville County | 24.4% |
| Danville City | 24.2% |
| Buchanan County | 23.9% |
| Montgomery County | 23.3% |
| Petersburg City | 22.8% |
| Dickenson County | 22.0% |
| Charlottesville City | 21.6% |
| Brunswick County | 21.3% |
| Emporia City | 21.1% |
| Richmond City | 21.1% |
| Nottoway County | 21.0% |
| Galax City | 21.0% |
| Lexington City | 21.0% |
| Hopewell City | 20.8% |
| Norton City | 20.4% |
These areas span the entirety of Virginia, and from very rural to some of the largest urban areas in the state. All these areas have active SCSEP offices. Virginia’s SCSEP population is increasing in diversity, and populations that have special needs require additional attention, more intensive and comprehensive services, and in many cases, unique approaches, and partnerships. Grantees depend on the local sub-grantees’ knowledge of local areas and determining how to implement policy in a diverse state.