Local Agency LEP Plan

I. Purpose

The purpose of this Limited English Proficiency plan is to outline the methods and system that _____________________________will utilize to ensure that their clients are being provided meaningful access to program information, benefits and services although the clients may be limited in their English Language Proficiency.

The Oregon Food Bank Network understands its responsibility to provide meaningful access to all individuals applying for or receiving services/benefits administered by, supervised by, authorized by and/or participated in by Oregon Food Bank, the Oregon Food Bank Network of Regional Food Banks and their local agencies. Meaningful access involves the Oregon Food Bank Network promoting effective communication to LEP individuals seeking or receiving services, benefits or participation in programs funded in part by federal funds and/or receiving TEFAP commodities. This plan provides necessary assurances and identifies tools being used to carry out this policy.

II. Federal Authorities

Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 42 U.S.C. §2000 et seq.; 45 CFR §80, Nondiscrimination based on race, color or national origin for any programs receiving federal financial assistance. Failure to provide meaningful access to program information, benefits and/or services due to an applicant/recipient’s LEP is considered discrimination based on national origin.
U.S. Department of Justice Title VI Legal Manual, January 11, 2001 edition
U.S. Department of Labor Policy Guidance on the Prohibition of National Origin Discrimination as it Pertains to Persons with Limited English Proficiency (05/29/03), Federal Register, Volume 68, Number 103, Page 32289-32305

III. LEP Population

_____________________________ has determined that the languages other than English that are most likely to be encountered by employees/volunteers of the agency are: _____________________________

IV. Plan for Providing Services to LEP Population