Grounded in the belief that California has an important responsibility to its residents with lower incomes, the Prosper California Coalition (formerly the CalEITC Coalition) originated with the campaign to create a California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC). Modeled on the federal credit of the same name, the CalEITC is another method to financially support low-income Californians, including those ineligible to receive the federal EITC or other credits.
Prosper California stands together to fight for policies that will make California more equitable and prosperous for all. Guided by our own experiences, facing long-standing inequities in wealth, opportunity, and access to resources, we know firsthand the struggles and strength of our communities.
We make bold steps toward closing the racial income and wealth gap by building a California where everyone has the cash and resources to thrive.’ Since establishing the CalEITC in 2015, our coalition has sponsored campaigns to introduce the Young Child Tax Credit (2019) and the Foster Youth Tax Credit (2022), and to expand eligibility for California’s anti-poverty tax credits.
Prosper California unites policy experts and community and labor organizations to fight for a range of policies that provide increased cash payments to boost incomes, improve well-being, and drive equity and economic inclusion for all Californians.
The Coalition’s three major campaigns in recent years have included:
- Raising the CalEITC minimum from $1 to $300,
- Expanding the Young Child Tax Credit so that all CalEITC-eligible families with dependents of any age are eligible, and
- Solidifying $20 million annually to Free Tax Preparation Assistance (FTPA), Education & Outreach grant funding.
ECPCA engages in lobbying and direct and grassroots advocacy activities via the GRACE End Child Poverty Institute.