Texas' economy is on the rise. Meaning, more jobs are available statewide and in Bexar County. However, child poverty is not getting any better especially when comparing Hispanic and African-American versus Anglo children.
Recent statistics show that one in four children in Texas still lives in poverty. In other words, at least 1.7 million children are still suffering from poverty. This number is virtually unchanged from last year as stated by an Austin-based advocacy group.
ExpressNews reports that 33 percent of Hispanic and 32 percent of African-American children live in poverty in the whole of Texas. In Bexar County, ln the other hand, 30.7 percent of Hispanic and 31.6 percent of African-American are considered poor.
This number is three times that of the Anglo children with only 11 percent in the whole of Texas and just 9.1 percent in Bexar County. These statistics is from the Center for Public Policy Priorities.
"This is a pattern we've seen across Texas; employment rates improve but child poverty doesn't follow," said Jennifer Lee, an analyst with CPPP. "I'm not exactly sure why it's gone up in Bexar County, but it's worth noting that the rate has been pretty stubborn all across Texas."
"The State of Texas Children" shows the disparities among ethnic, racial, and gender groups across a variety of measures, including food insecurity.
The lack of reliable access to healthy food is one of the issues that is most likely to have an immense effect on children. In Texas, this affects 38 percent of African-American children.
In terms of health insurance, Texas is considered to be one of the highest uninsured rates. "As the state's economy and population grows, the future of Texas depends on the health, education and financial security for all our children," said Ann Beeson, CPPP executive director. "Too many children in Texas continue to face tremendous barriers to opportunity because of the color of their skin."
However, this can become better if the recommendations outlined in the report can be followed.
"If we want to improve child well-being in Texas, we need to be committed to investing resources and adjusting our practices so that we improve well-being for every child in Texas," Lee said.
