CDF National Initiatives

Children's Defense Fund has worked relentlessly for more than 35 years to ensure a level playing field for all children. We champion policies and programs that lift children out of poverty; protect them from abuse and neglect; and ensure their access to health care, quality education, and a moral and spiritual foundation. CDF advocates nationwide on behalf of children to ensure children are always a priority. To achieve our vision for children, our three-year strategic plan focuses on four priorities for children:

1. The Health Coverage for All Children Campaign to secure comprehensive health and mental health coverage for every child and pregnant woman; 
2. The Cradle to Prison Pipeline® Campaign to stop the funneling of tens of thousands of youth down life paths that often lead to prison;
3. Developing youth leaders who will become the next generation of child advocates; and 
4. Ending child poverty and stabilizing families.