    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2001, Book II)]
    [August 16, 2001]
    [Page 990]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    [[Page 990]]

    Statement on the Report of the White House Office on Faith-Based and
    Community Initiatives
    August 16, 2001

        On January 29, 2001, I signed an Executive order creating Centers
    for Faith-Based and Community Initiatives in the Departments of Health
    and Human Services, Housing and Urban Development, Labor, Justice, and
    Education. I charged each Center to conduct a Department-wide audit and
    identify all existing barriers to the participation of faith-based and
    community organizations in Federal social service programs.
        Over the past 6 months, five Cabinet Offices for Faith-Based and
    Community Initiatives have examined administrative procedures, programs,
    and policies. Today the White House Office on Faith-Based and Community
    Initiatives reported their findings.
        The report, entitled ``Unlevel Playing Field,'' highlights the
    funding gap between the Government and the grassroots. It points out
    significant barriers organizations face in obtaining Federal support for
    their compassionate work. And it shows clearly how much work needs to be
    done to mobilize the armies of compassion.
        The Cabinet Centers have done vitally important work in examining
    Federal social service programs. We now see exactly what kind of
    obstacles stand in the way of a more compassionate America. Our emphasis
    must always remain on getting compassionate results. We look forward to
    addressing these inequities through legislation, administrative action,
    and education. Americans in need are depending upon it.

    Note: The Executive order was published in the Federal Register at 66 FR
    8497.