Children First for Oregon

2011 Progress Report: The Status of Children in Oregon

Our 2011 Progress Report: The Status of Children in Oregon, shows that Oregon has made improvements in children’s access to health services, despite seeing an increase in child poverty.

Although the rate of Oregon children living in poverty rose two percentage points over the past year, we have witnessed an increase in the number of children with health coverage as well. The latest census data from 2010 shows an increase from 89% (in 2009) to 91% of Oregon children having health coverage. This is truly a testament to the success of state programs like Oregon Healthy Kids, which provides health care coverage for Oregon children living in families earning under 300% of the Federal Poverty Level (which equates to $67,050 in annual income for a family of four). In addition, more Oregon children have access to health services at a School-Based Health Center compared to the year prior. The increase of children with health coverage and school-based health access are a result of 2009 legislative action to invest and expand the State’s Child Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) and School-Based Health Centers.

The health access improvements over the past year are encouraging. But Oregon children are experiencing a greater need, as expressed in the child poverty rate increase to 21%—up from 19% in 2009. An increase in the number of homeless students and children experiencing food insecurity shows holes in our safety net for Oregon kids. As of September 2011, 20,545 students in Oregon’s K-12 system are homeless—nearly an 8% increase from the previous school year.

It comes as no surprise that children have been hit hard by the recession, but that makes the numbers no less staggering. When families experience financial stress, there is an even greater need for programs that ensure children’s health and safety. Download a copy of our progress report to see more data on how kids are faring in Oregon.