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2013 Priority: Protection of At-Risk Youth

The Center and its members believe justice and respect for the dignity of every human being, particularly children, are core moral values. Evidence is conclusive that policies which invest in the education and health of our youngest generations are beneficial in reducing poverty and addressing many of the issues that place children at risk in the first place.

Child Care Subsidies
Currently low-income families are able to receive subsidies from the state of Virginia to cover the cost of child care. However, some are considering placing limitations on how long families can access this benefit. Affordable child care is crucial for working parents, as well as those participating in job training programs and furthering their education. The Center will work to secure access to affordable and quality health care for all low income families.

Human Trafficking
Trafficking is a horrendous practice that robs its victims of the freedom and dignity endowed to them by their Creator. Each year thousands of Virginian’s women and children are abused by those who make a profit off of their bodies and labor. Virginia advocates from a variety of backgrounds are united in strengthening Virginia’s laws to protect children from human trafficking. After the 2012 session, a new law was enacted to provide resources and educational materials about human trafficking to public school teachers and administrators. In the upcoming year, we will seek strengthened protections and increased penalties for those who participate in this inhumane practice that violates our basic understandings of life and liberty.    

Education Opportunities for All
In Virginia, as in other parts of the United States, immigrants and new Americans contribute significantly to our society as they work, pay taxes, serve in the military, study and worship in our communities. As faithful advocates we seriously heed the call to “welcome the stranger among us” and will continue to advocate for statewide education and employment opportunities that are inclusive of those here without documentation.  

We oppose policy initiatives that seek to blame and punish children for being undocumented because we believe that punishing children for their parent’s circumstances is both unethical and un-American. We will continue to support policies that foster the growth of these children into responsible and productive legal citizens. By teaching American immigrants English and preparing them to be contributing members of our workforce and society, we can build a stronger economy and secure a productive future for all Virginians.



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