One of the milestone decisions of every parent is where they should live to raise their children. For Black families, this decision is paramount to ensure even the most basic of needs, like survival. No place is 100% safe or full of unrestricted opportunities, but according to a recent study, the Midwest may the worst place for Black families when it comes to racial disparities for children.
“Research has shown that growing up in chronic poverty contributes directly to stress at a level that can affect children’s health, brain development and social and emotional well-being — a response known as ‘toxic stress,” notes the KIDS COUNT policy report “Race for Results: Building a Path to Opportunity for All Children”.
The study, conducted by family advocacy organization the Annie E. Casey Foundation, evaluated states on 12 indicators that measured a child’s success in each stage of life, from birth to adulthood, including family income and education.
“The indicators were chosen based on the goal that all children should grow up in economically successful families, live in supportive communities and meet developmental, health and educational milestones,” per the report.
The report makes policy recommendations to help ensure families, especially their children, can reach their full potential no matter where they live.
View the slideshow to see which states made the top 10 list.
Top 10 Worst States To Raise Black Children was originally published on blackdoctor.org
