The 2004 federal budget calls for far-reaching cuts in domestic programs and, many worry, will force cash-strapped states and local communities to make painful choices. Current proposals would pare federal programs like welfare, health care, housing assistance and other safety net programs while making it harder for families to qualify for school lunches and subsidized child and health care. More and more, it will be up to communities - shifting responsibility for raising money locally to provide vital services.

• State budget deficits have jumped by nearly 50% in the last three months. As proposed, the 2004 budget would reduce state tax revenues by $64 billion over the next decade.
  
  
• 1.7 million Americans have been jobless for over six months. 5.5 million Americans ages 16 to 24 are jobless, up 12% since 2000. Federal youth employment and training program budgets have been slashed.
  
  
• 36 states are reporting alarming gaps between income and spending. 29 states have cut budgets across the board. 8 states have laid off workers. 24 states are considering tax hikes.

When hard times hit home, it is average Americans – you and me – who are affected most. As state and federal purses are pinched, our communities must still generate resources –while continuing to press for appropriate government support. Local leaders know best the impacts of decisions made on Capital Hill – for they are already in the field, providing essential services to community members every day. What will federal tax cuts and shifting of funding priorities coupled with record deficits mean to communities? Has concern for community well being all but expired – shifting welfare to warfare? What can communities do to get their needs met?