In the late 1980's, a group of concerned Mid-City community representatives came together to respond to the rapidly deteriorating conditions in the area. Now known as Mid-City Community Advocacy Network (Mid-City CAN), this unique collaboration is comprised of schools, businesses, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, youth, parents, ethnic and cultural groups, civic associations and faith-based institutions. Mission statement: The Mid-City Community Advocacy Network's mission is to create a safe, productive, and healthy community through collaboration, advocacy, and organizing. Mid-City CAN's goals are: -To provide coordination and integration of social, health and community services -To develop greater community involvement -To provide a forum for community-based decision making, and -To advocate for changes in government policies and systems that will improve the quality of life for all of Mid-City’s residents – especially our children.