BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) -- VOICES for Alabama's Children released its 2024 Alabama Kids Count Data Book Monday.
The data book notes some initiatives in the state have helped improve child well-being, including the Alabama Literacy and Numeracy Acts, and the Alabama Juvenile Justice Act. According to a press release, there's been a 61.4% decline in youth incarcerations since the act was implemented.
The child death rate reportedly increased from 22.3 per 100,000 children in 2012, to 25.1 per 100,000 in 2022. The increased number of preventable teen deaths also increased from 175 in 2012 to 179 in 2022.
“The Alabama Kids Count data shows that while every family is unique, many face common challenges affecting children's health, safety, and education, often due to barriers to economic security,” said Joan Witherspoon-Norris, executive director of the Alabama Network of Family Resource Centers. “Our desire is for every Alabama family to thrive and to be supported by a community that is empowered to foster growth. The Alabama Network of Family Resource Centers is dedicated to partnering with local communities to drive positive change through collaboration, advocating for high-quality family support and policies that strengthen our society.”
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