Step Up For Kids 2011
Capitol of Texas (south steps)
Saturday, October 15, 2011
10am - 1:30pm
Although the focus of discussion surrounding the current economic crisis is centered in Washington, it is those who live outside the Beltway who are truly feeling the effects. The majority of states are facing unprecedented budget cuts which will have great impact on their youngest citizens.
Past recessions suggest that children's programs will be disproportionately hurt by this economic downturn. Needed programs are already being cut. What will this mean for the children in Texas who live in poverty? What about the children who lack health insurance? The kids who are reported abused or neglected?
According to Kaiser State Health Facts, 7.1 million children 18 and under live in poverty, 30% of TX population.
Stepping Up for Kids means that we as adults need to become advocates for the thousands of young people in our state who have unmet needs. It means urging elected officials to consider the needs of children and families when they are making budget decisions. It means compelling them to shift spending priorities in the direction of our most vulnerable citizens who are at the same time our most valuable assets. In short, Stepping Up for Kids means letting our elected and appointed officials know that we consider investing in the well-being of our children a top priority.
