Nearly 20 organizations, advocates and state legislators join day of action for justice

Earlier today, the Voices for Virginia’s Children, ChildSavers, and YMCA Richmond hosted a “Just Futures for Children and Young People Rally,” a day of action calling on the General Assembly, policy makers and community leaders to improve the overall health and well-being of children in Virginia.

Policy priorities include for these organizations included the following:

• Cover all Kids through comprehensive health coverage, regardless of immigration status
• School-based mental health: Ensure children have access to community-based and school-based mental health services.
• Language access & equity: Ensure all families and children have access to state agencies and services, regardless of their native language or disability.
• Earned Income Tax Credit: Provide family economic support and stability through a refundable tax credit for low-income families.

There are 2.6 million children and young adults in Virgina. According to the State of Virginia’s Children report, Virginia experiences the largest increase in racial diversity in the past 10 years. Yet, too many families struggle to meet their basic needs. Half of all Black children and 43% of all Hispanic children in Virginia are economically disadvantaged. Through this action, these advocates are joining a coalition of legislations to stamp out the injustices damaging the health of children, working families and communities of color.