PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) – A children’s advocacy organization has released an annual report that charts improvements and declines in the wellbeing of Rhode Island’s kids.
Rhode Island Kids Count released its 25th annual Factbook Monday at an event in Warwick. Politicians, lawmakers and community leaders attended.
Elizabeth Burke Bryant, the nonprofit’s executive director, says the report showed many positive trends, including a decline in child poverty and an increase in the percentage of children with health insurance. She says there are also some troubling trends, such as more school suspensions and high rates of e-cigarette use among youth.
The nonprofit says that by examining the best available data statewide and in Rhode Island’s 39 municipalities, it aims to provide information that can result in more effective policy and community action for children.
