The counties we serve are rural and have high rates of poverty. According to the 2023 Roadmap of Need, published by the NC Public School Forum, Halifax County ranks 100 in the state for Economic Development, 88 for Physical Health, and 92 for Educational Outcomes. Key data shows that household income in Halifax County is only 66% of the state average, the housing cost burden is 37%, and child food insecurity is experienced by 30% of our children, in addition to 69.5% of children not meeting 3rd grade reading proficiency. Warren County ranks 87 for Economic Development, 59 for Physical Health, and 99 for Educational Outcomes. Their median household income is 72% of the state average, the housing cost burden is 29%, and 28.2% of children are food insecure. Additionally, 77.1% of children do not meet 3rd grade reading proficiency. Stress in families correlates to higher child maltreatment, causing long-lasting adverse effects. Many children in these counties additionally have high ACE (adverse childhood experience) scores due to maltreatment, parental issues, and mental health challenges, correlating with poor health, school disengagement, disciplinary issues, and substance abuse. Educational deficits require community support; if our children cannot read, they cannot succeed.
We address these needs with a two-pronged, multi-generational approach. Our emergency food pantry, crisis clothing, and household item provision help families move from survival mode to future planning. Programs like "Stock the Classroom" reach about 400 students through our area schools and our Christmas Outreach serves about 450 children annually. We work to develop relationships with those we serve, so that we gain an understanding of the barriers they are encountering and can support them effectively.
Educationally, we offer afterschool programs and free summer day camps, focusing on literacy and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) to combat learning loss and foster a love of learning. For parents and caregivers, we provide financial literacy, the Positive Parenting Program, and "Table Talk" discussions, along with referrals for additional support such mental health services. We also focus on community education to increase trauma-informed community, build resilience, as well as recognizing and responding to child maltreatment.
252-586-1800