Kids Count Data Center

The KIDS COUNT in Missouri 2009 Data Book, a publication of Citizens for Missouri's Children, confirms that children in the state are facing increasing challenges brought on by higher levels of poverty, a lack of affordable health care, and a lack of high-quality educational opportunities for all Missouri's children.

The 2009 Data Book finds child poverty and the adult unemployment rate increased during the most recent reporting period. However, the number of children receiving subsidized child care, the number of children receiving cash assistance, and the number of children enrolled in MO HealthNet for Kids decreased between 2004 and 2008. 

The KIDS COUNT in Missouri 2009 Data Book is the first such report that consists of an entire year of recession data, and clearly shows that children and families in Missouri are living in need. However, seeing decreases in the number of children enrolled in MO HealthNet for Kids and the state’s child care assistance program is especially worrisome. We know that more Missouri families are being affected by economic hardship, so the state must make greater efforts to expand eligibility, target and reach eligible children and families, and reduce enrollment barriers for public assistance programs.
 
To learn more about KIDS COUNT in Missouri, to download the latest KIDS COUNT in Missouri Data Book, or to compare Missouri counties using Citizens for Missouri's Children's interactive Web map, visit www.mokids.org/Research/KIDSCOUNT/KIDSCOUNTMissouri.aspx.