On July 21st, Children’s HealthWatch submitted a written testimony to strongly support Massachusetts Bill: “Lift Kids Out of Deep Poverty (House 102, Senate 36)”. House 102 and Senate 36 would raise grants by 10% each year until they reach Deep Poverty – half of the federal poverty level. We must do at least this for our state’s children and families. Grants would then go up by a small amount each year to keep pace with inflation as the Deep Poverty level goes up accordingly.

Supporting the health and development of children and families across our Commonwealth is necessary for our state’s current and future prosperity and well-being. Decades of research show comprehensive, multi-sector strategies that reduce poverty and hardships are necessary to achieve optimal health outcomes. For these reasons, we strongly urge you to pass these important bills.