(Baltimore, MD, Monday, December 14, 2020) – Data from the new 50-state report, Kids, Families and COVID-19: Pandemic Pain Points and the Urgent Need to Respond, show children and families are suffering from the unprecedented disruption and economic storm set off by the global health crisis.

Families require an immediate policy response to meet the needs of children during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has left millions struggling with finances, school, work and mental health, according to a new policy report from The Annie E. Casey Foundation, a decades-long advocate for young people in America.

In assessing food security, the ability to make rent or mortgage payments, health insurance status and mental health concerns, the Foundation identified four pain points for children and families that require immediate action for relief and an opportunity to build a more equitable future.

The Foundation urges policymakers and child advocates to unite across differences and put COVID-19 response at the top of 2021 agendas to make sure children have what they need to survive and thrive.

The Annie E. Casey Foundation creates a brighter future for the nation’s children by developing solutions to strengthen families, build paths to economic opportunity and transform struggling communities into safer and healthier places to live, work and grow. For more information, visit www.aecf.org. KIDS COUNT® is a registered trademark of the Annie E. Casey Foundation.