The Economic Crisis and the Health, Well-Being and Security of New York's Children and Families: Report of a Meeting, March 13, 2009

The March 2009 New York Child Health Forum shed light on troubling long-term trends that have become only more salient in the context of today's economic crisis. These range from the rising income inequality and erosion of the income tax base that has jeopardized the state and city's fiscal situation to the persistent underpayment for community health center services that has put the centers very survival at risk. Moreover, while some indicators of child and family well-being in New York have been quite positive in recent years, serious problems persisted even in good economic times, such as insufficient access to affordable housing and child care. This brief meeting summary provides highlights from each of the speakers' comments, including their recommendations for addressing the critical challenges New York faces. Also below is information about where to find more detailed and up-to-date information about the impact of the economic crisis on New York's children and families