TOO MANY CHILDREN ARE AT RISK
The numbers speak for themselves. According to March 2008 statistics collected by the Children’s Defense Fund, every day in America:
- 4 children are killed by abuse or neglect.
- 5 children or teens commit suicide.
- 8 children or teens are killed by firearms.
- 1,154 babies are born to teen mothers.
- 2,467 high school students drop out.
- 2,421 children are confirmed as abused or neglected.
- 2,483 babies are born into poverty.
- 3,477 children are arrested, 451 of them for violent crimes or drug abuse.
With statistics like these, it’s no wonder that 1 in 3 children in America is a year or more behind in school. And children who leave elementary school not being able to read at grade level are dramatically less likely to succeed.
Millions of our children are living in situations where their emotional and social needs are not being met, putting them at risk. Millions of children in America are searching for proof that someone cares. KIDS HOPE USA is here to give them that proof, one child, one hour at a time. Our proven programs join one church and one school in a partnership that helps children thrive.