Child Research Data & Publications

Early intervention and prevention programs have proven to be the least expensive and often most effective part of Minnesota’s child welfare system.
They do what they are designed to do—prevent abuse and neglect of children. Yet this report reveals that these were the programs that were first to be cut or eliminated as a result of Minnesota’s state leaders’ actions in 2003.

The effects of last year's drastic cuts to Minnesota child care assistance programs are beginning to emerge and it is clear that working families and children are struggling and/or returning to welfare.

“Work supports,” such as child care assistance, health care coverage, food support, and earned income tax credits, ensure a critical foundation for these families. By helping families meet their basic needs, work supports stabilize families and thus encourage employment and job retention.