Since 1976, Community Advocates has maintained and strengthened its mission to provide basic needs advocacy and services to low-income and at-risk Milwaukee families and individuals by offering more than 30 specialized programs, including health care advocacy, case management, protective payee services and energy assistance. The agency also assists in SSI appeals for those with disabilities and mental illness. As the lead agency for Milwaukee’s Continuum of Care, Community Advocates (CA) is a recognized leader in providing services to the homeless. Through its Milwaukee Women’s Center Division, CA provides services to victims of domestic violence and their abusers. As the lead agency for Milwaukee Brighter Futures, CA oversees programs for children, youth and their families that help prevent teen pregnancy, child abuse and neglect, violence, gang involvement and alcohol and drug abuse. CA’s Public Policy and Planning Institute researches and addresses the numerous barriers that affect individuals and families living in poverty.