In July, PICO affiliate People and Congregations Together (PACT) helped convene a gathering of local clergy of various denominations to explore ways to work together to address the impact of California's $17 billion deficit on low-income in San Joaquin County.

The clergy group drafted a letter signed by representatives of over 40 area congregations, outlining principles for the development of a "moral budget" in California that would prioritize housing, health care, and public safety for the state's poorest residents. The clergy group also met with State Senator Mike Machado and Assemblyman Greg Aghazarian.

For more information on People and Congregations Together (PACT), visit www.pact4sjc.org

More information
Statement from San Joaquin Valley religious leaders                             

Media Coverage
Bringing morality into budget process
S.J. religious leaders seek "moral budget"