Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families

Arkansas child advocate Keesa Smith-Brantley discusses risks of Medicaid cuts, SNAP funding shifts, and child well-being in the state.

Arkansas ranks 45th in child well-being nationwide, with fewer kids in poverty but persistent racial gaps in health, education and economic stability.

As Congress considers changes to Medicaid, those who work with women who are of childbearing age in Arkansas say any changes will negatively impact patients, families and the economy, especially in rural communities.

Arkansas advocates push for funding in Pre-K, childcare, and disability services, highlighting underfunding and the need for improved worker wages.

Gov. Asa Hutchinson says the state is expanding Medicaid access for pregnant people, launching new post-partum home visits, and increasing payments to foster parents.

Arkansas ranks 43rd in child well-being, according to a new national report. Child poverty rates in the state are especially high, despite improvements over the past decade.

This week (Aug. 5) marks the 25th anniversary of the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), known in Arkansas as ARKids First. CHIP was created by Congress to cover millions of kids who might not otherwise have health insurance. More than 70,000 children have ARKids coverage, but thousands more who are eligible are not enrolled.

Many Arkansans are still feeling the economic pain exacerbated by the pandemic. As the state gears up to receive its second round of American Rescue Plan dollars, advocates say thorough community engagement will be key in spending the money wisely.

With a majority of support from legislators for a tax reduction package, Gov. Asa Hutchinson said Tuesday (Nov. 30) he is calling a special legislative session for Dec. 7. The session also will include a vote on security personnel for the Arkansas House and Senate.

Little Rock, AR - The Medicaid storytelling project spotlights stories of Medicaid recipients, health-care providers, and people previously denied services.