Greater Lawrence Community Action Council is a private, nonprofit agency, designated as the official federal and state antipoverty agency for the Greater Lawrence area in Massachusetts. Greater Lawrence Community Action Council originated in 1965 as the Lawrence Community Action Council, and changed its name in 1966. It offers various programs and services to encourage and promote the improvement of community life in Greater Lawrence, with special emphasis on the initiation of programs in education, social services, child care, health, housing youth employment and related fields. Since its inception, the council has worked with local, state and federal governments and private agencies for creating opportunities for people living in poverty. The organization serves more than 20,000 clients in a variety of programs, including child health, energy, and social and community service programs. The organization is located in Lawrence.