RELEVANT CHILDREN'S MINISTRY

Recent research from the Annie E. Casey foundation shows the status of children in the United States.  Here are some of the key findings.

22% live in poverty compared to 18% in 2008.

30% have parents who lack secure employment compared to 27% in 2008.

35% of children live in households with a housing cost burden.  This is improved from 39% in 2008.

7% of teens are not in school and not working. This is improved from 8% in 2008.

53% of young children are not in school compared to 52% in 2009.

65% of 4th graders are not proficient in reading.  This is improved from 68% in 2007.

68% of 8th graders are not proficient in reading.  This is improved from 69% in 2007.

18% of high school students are not graduating on time.  This is improved from 25% in 2008.

8% of babies are born at a low weight.  This is improved from 8.2% in 2008.

6% of children do not have health insurance.  This is improved from 10% in 2008.

There are 24 children and teen deaths per 100,00 people.  This is improved from 29 per 100,000 in 2008.

5% of teens abuse alcohol or drugs.  This is improved from 8% in 2008. 

35% of children are in single-parent homes compared to 32% in 2008.

14% of children have a head of household who does not have a high school diploma.  This is improved from 16% in 2008.

14% of children live in high-poverty areas compared to 11% in 2010.

These percentages and numbers represent real children with real parents.  Like never before, the church has the opportunity and responsibility to help and invest in children and families.  We have a lot of work to do.  Let's go.