Researcher(s)
- Aubrey Rush, Political Science, University of Delaware
Faculty Mentor(s)
- Erin Nescott, Center for Community Research and Service, University of Delaware
- Janice Barlow, Center for Community Research and Service, KIDS COUNT in Delaware, University of Delaware
Abstract
Children are the future of our nation. Stability and support are key to ensuring that they receive all the resources necessary to thrive. When supports are withdrawn or allowed to erode, data show predictable outcomes which include increases in child poverty, food insecurity, unmet health needs, and widening demographic gaps. Children are unable to vote, making advocacy essential to promoting equitable outcomes and ensuring no child is left behind. My summer projects are grounded in the KIDS COUNT in Delaware mission: positioning data at the forefront of child well-being conversations and driving informed action in an evolving policy landscape. I created a Legislative Page-A-Day Calendar, using content from the 2026 KIDS COUNT FOCUS Book, that will be distributed to Delaware lawmakers during the 2027 legislative session. The legislative calendar provides daily data snapshots on child well-being, intended to guide policy decisions and underscore the importance of addressing social disparities and meeting the health, economic, educational, and community needs of Delaware children and families. My second project was the 2026 Legislative Wrap-Up, which informs Delawareans about the recent bills that will have an impact in those core sectors. In addition, I explored the specific intersection of health and housing in Delaware and supported homelessness initiatives through research. My time at KIDS COUNT has affirmed the importance of data-driven decisions and being an active voice for change in my community.