Missouri has made strides in recent years when it comes to the economic stability of families, but advocates stressed there is more work to be done. Missouri ranks 18th for economic well-being in the latest Kids Count Data Book, which also shows a drop in the child poverty rate from 21% in 2012 to 17% in 2020. Melissa Stickel, executive director of the Community Partnership of Southeast Missouri, said their programs focus on reducing poverty by helping people attain the skills needed to earn a stable, supportive income. .
Children s Hospital Colorado has increased its mental-health inpatient, outpatient and day services by more than 50% to address what it called a state of emergency among children and teenagers, thanks in part to a nearly $2 million investment by Ent Credit Union. Mollie Bell, chief development officer for Ent Credit Union, said suicide is the leading cause of death for Colorado kids and teens, surpassing car accidents and cancer. "We need some focused support from our community to get to the root cause," Bell said. " .
A strong future for Missouri depends on ensuring its youngest residents grow up healthy and resilient, and partnerships are helping children grow up with their best opportunities for success. The percentage of low-birthweight babies in the state rose from 28% in 2017 to 31% in 2020, according to the latest Kids Count data. Janet Dankert, president and CEO of Community Partnership of the Ozarks, said it is among the issues they are working to address through their home-visitation programs. .
Understanding future success is closely linked to educational outcomes, organizations in Missouri are helping teens and young adults meet their academic and career goals. The latest Kids Count data showed about 92% of Missouri high schoolers graduate on time, although the percentage is lower in some areas. Robin Hammond, executive director of the St. .