Local Collaboration Lowers Risk of Lead Poisoning Among Children
The air young children breathe, the home where they spend most of their time, and the yard where they play, may all contain a danger that can damage developing brains:…
Building an Equitable Child Care System
As the price of groceries, gas, and other essentials continues to rise, so, too, does the cost of child care. In fact, a new report from Child Care Aware of…
Photo by Ev on Unsplash
Families Experiencing Homelessness
(Data sourced from KConnect analysis, 2018 Video created by Heart of West Michigan United Way, 2018) When you think of homelessness, many of us conjure up the image of the…
Make your Voice Count – Normal was Never Enough
The promise of another new school year puts added distance between us and the Covid-19 pandemic. While the virus is still with us, the massive disruptions to work, school, and…
How police violence impacts childhood development
In the months after a Grand Rapids police officer killed Patrick Lyoya, community members have come together to grieve, remember, march, protest, and demand justice. Much of it has unfolded…
Pregnancy and Birth Equity
By almost every measure, Black women and babies fare worse through pregnancy and infancy than mothers and babies of other races or ethnicities. Black mothers are two to three times…
Economic Security in Grand Rapids
A fast-growing population. A strong economy. A booming housing market. The Grand Rapids area has become a highly desirable destination for many people, recognized for its economic opportunities and quality…
What Do We Mean by Normal Was Never Enough?
There is a strong sense of hope that the social distancing, endless Zoom meetings, and virtual classes are all behind us. The community is getting back to normal. Normal school.…