More Children Lived in Poor or Low-Income Families
Between 2005 and 2010, the child poverty rate escalated from 8.6% to 13.3% in Oakland County. Relatively high unemployment and low wages weakened financial security in our community. Our state has responded minimally to support these families.
Fewer Babies and Children Died
Between 2005 and 2010 mortality rates for infants as well as for children dropped by 8%. However, we still see too many suffering from chronic health problems. Dramatic disparities in health and mortality persist by race/ethnicity and family income. As parents lost jobs and health benefits, Michigan responded positively by expanding access to health care for children through the Medicaid and MIChild programs. Overall the state has one of the smallest percentages of uninsured children in the nation. However, provider rates still limit access, particularly for specialty care.
Less Children Experienced Neglect or Abuse
Children confirmed as victims of maltreatment in 2011 decreased by 700 from 2005. In addition, children in the foster care system in 2011 also dropped by 800 from 2005. Teen birth rates also continue to decline.
What Can We Do To Improve Child Well-Being?
Advocate for policies that:
- Raise the eligibility and adjust the sliding scale for the child care subsidy
- Advocate for policies that improve the health and well-being of children in low-income families and communities of color
- Maintain support for evidence based programs to prevent teen pregnancy
- Invest in prevention (of child abuse or neglect) to increase support to all families
- Increase investments in early childhood care and education
- Reduce class size, particularly in the early grades
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