A new study shows that North Carolina has made little progress on children living in poverty. The Tar Heel State is ranked in the bottom half of states in the health and well-being of children.
The study by the Annie E. Casey foundation shows that in 2013, one in four children in North Carolina lived in poverty.
That compares with a 2005 report that showed one in five children living below the poverty line.
North Carolina ranks 35th in the country for children's overall well-being, a measure that includes rankings for education, economic well-being, health and family and community.
WRAL reports some analysts believe that many families have not regained their footing since the Great Recession, a trend that's mirrored nationwide.
But the study also includes some promising signs. The state scored high in categories related to health.
Reading and math proficiency rates have improved. and more teens are likely to graduate on-time.
But advocates say the poverty rate is especially troubling, and point to other recent studies that show how damaging the long-term effects of poverty can be.
300x250 Ad
300x250 Ad