UTICA, N.Y. — Those living or working in Utica have one more chance to weigh in on a unique opportunity to combat poverty in the city.

Several Utica Empire State Poverty Reduction Initiative, or "ESPRI," focus groups have been held throughout the city over the last year.

About 600 people have participated, and some popular issues brought up include needing more transportation and child care options during odd hours.

At Thursday's meeting, people can vote on what issues brought up from the meetings are most critical, and then organizations will work to address those needs.

"There may be two projects. It's not set in stone yet, and that's the beauty of it. We want to give the people an opportunity to see what they said and to respond to what they said by voting," said Utica ESPRI Administrator Dietra Harvey.

The Utica ESPRI Town Hall Meeting is being held Thursday, December 7 at Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School at 211 Square Street.

There are food and refreshments from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The meeting starts at 6:00 p.m.

There will also be prize drawings starting at 7:00 p.m.

Child care, interpreters and transportation will be available upon request.

RSVP to attend or for more information about childcare, interpreters, and transportation, call 315-733-4691, ext. 241 or email jillc@unitedwayvgu.org.