Community Action Agencies are locally controlled organizations that work to improve the lives of low-income individuals by creating opportunities for increased self-sufficiency and greater participation in the community. Community Action Agencies provide a broad range of programs. They weatherize homes to reduce a family’s energy costs; provide early childhood programs to help prepare youngsters to succeed in school; build affordable houses so families can have a home of their own; complete and file federal and state tax returns for families without charge; offer opportunities for senior citizens to stay active in their communities through volunteer programs; operate transit programs to get families to medical appointments and workers to jobs; help the elderly maintain their health through nutrition programs; assist vulnerable households avoid loss of essential services through utility payment assistance.