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Remarks By Governor John E. Baldacci: 12th Annual Maine Kids Count Data BookFebruary 28, 2006 Every year Maine KIDS COUNT marks an important time in which we review how well, we as a state, are doing by our children. It tells us what we are doing right and where we need to improve. And it also shows us when we focus on the right problems, and work at them, we can begin the process of solving problems and making the situation better for our children. If you look at health insurance you will see a success story. The number of uninsured Maine children is half the national average. This has been a primary goal of my administration and is the result of much hard work on behalf of many people. Access to quality healthcare for children from their youngest years is the right thing to do. And my administration, along with the first lady, and the children's cabinet have been able to turn around some disturbing trends. As some of you may know, Maine's rate of teen suicide is above the national average. Over the past two years, "KIDS COUNT" tells us that the rate has come down. Working together we can help children and help prevent tragedies. "KIDS COUNT" also shows us where more work is needed. One trend that concerns me is the number of young people who are hospitalized for mental illness and substance abuse. While we have made progress in lowering the number of children forced out of state for treatment we continue to see the numbers of hospitalizations in state grow overall. KIDS COUNT plays an important role in evaluating where we have been and where we need to go… Updated: Sep 4th, 2008 - 15:24:01 |
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A Strong and Powerful Voice to Improve the Lives of All Maine's Children, Youth and Families
© 2002 Maine Children's Alliance, 303 State Street, Augusta, Maine 04330 v. (207) 623-1868 f. (207) 626-3302 e. Mainekids@mekids.org Section 508/Bobby Approved. www.mekids.org |