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Safeguarding Our Future: Children and Families First

NCJ Number
154579
Date Published
1994
Length
273 pages
Annotation
This is a comprehensive look at the problems facing children in the State of Texas, with recommendations of the Texas Commission on Children and Youth.
Abstract
The Commission observed that most children are growing up to become productive members of society. However, increasing numbers are falling victim to unemployment, substance abuse, welfare dependence, and crime. The Commission recommended applying financial resources to prevention and early intervention rather than relying on the criminal justice system to solve the problems after children and families have gotten into trouble. The State must take the lead in forming new community partnerships among government, education, business, charitable organizations, and churches and synagogues to support children and families. The report discusses 62 issues, within the framework of six major goals: (1) Foster Stable, Nurturing and Supportive Families; (2) Promote Healthy Children; (3) Ensure School Readiness; (4) Guarantee School Success; (5) Deter Youth from Crime; and (6) Ensure Serious Consequences for Violent and Habitual Juvenile Offenders. Each issue discussion includes Background Information, Findings, Recommendation, and Fiscal Impact. Bibliography, appendixes