The United States is facing a deep recession with an unemployment rate of ten percent. 15 million Americans are out of work and nearly six million have been so for six months or more. Unemployment not only tightens a family’s budget, but directly impacts children’s futures. Studies have shown that a parent’s unemployment has negative effects on a child’s education, future earning potential, and emotional well-being. In addition, workers in their teens are bearing the brunt of this current economic downturn with an unemployment rate that is more than two and a half times the national rate.iii This report outlines initiatives that will create jobs and help our nation’s children and families.
