Illinois has one of the highest infant mortality rates in the country, as well as many school districts on the verge of bankruptcy, urban schools that are failing to educate many children, and other problems. The most vital resource that families need to raise children is an adequate income, but the inequitable State and local tax system in Illinois places a burden on low-income families. A State Children in Poverty Tax Credit would relieve some of that inequity and help to make work pay for those in the lowest-paying jobs. In addition, a set of preventive strategies to ensure a good start for babies and young children and an economic strategy to benefit low-income families are needed. Specific measures should include medical insurance for uninsured pregnant women, prenatal care, preschool for disadvantaged children, adequate funding for public education, a State housing trust fund to encourage the construction and rehabilitation of affordable housing, and timely and appropriate help for families whose children are abused, neglected, or delinquent. Figures.