Challenges that families face in the United States

Discuss some of the challenges that families face in the United States, and the limitations and prospects of policy efforts to support families. Incorporate all of the readings from weeks 8 & 9 (Sweet, Hernandez et al, Armenia et al, Marr et al) +500 words, include references

Sample Solution

The challenges that families in the United States face are linked to broader issues of economic inequality, racial and gender disparity, health care access and educational opportunities. These issues have been exacerbated by the current political climate, which has seen a rollback of many policies meant to support working people and low-income families. The most pressing challenges include: lack of affordable housing; increasing cost of childcare; insufficient wages for parents (particularly those who are single or non-custodial); persistent poverty among children; and disparities in education outcomes between different racial/ethnic groups.

Lack of Affordable Housing
According to Sweet (2019), one of the major barriers facing low-income families is inadequate access to affordable housing. This problem affects both large cities as well as rural areas across the country. Although there have been some policy efforts aimed at addressing this issue, such as the Low Income Housing Tax Credit program, much more needs to be done. In addition, Armenia et al (2018) emphasize that while subsidized housing can act as a short-term solution for some families, it does not address underlying structural inequalities in access to capital or job opportunities needed for long-term financial stability.

Increasing Cost of Childcare
A recent article by Hernandez et al (2020) highlights how rising costs of childcare hinder economic growth and exacerbate existing disparities between high-income households with easy access to quality early childhood care versus poor households with limited resources who cannot afford these services due their lower wages or unemployment status . As Marr et al (2019) point out , “the cost burden associated with child care can consume up to 60 percentof household income” making it difficult for parents—especially single mothers –to maintain any kind employment let alone pursue higher education or career advancement options .

Policy Efforts In response , there have been various policies put forth at local state ,and federal levels targeting specific groups needing assistance . For example , numerous states provide subsidies for early childhood programs ; however , since these funds are often allocated based on family size rather than ability -to -pay , they may not adequately reach those most in need . Federal bills such as Better Start Act from 2018 would increase funding available through the Social Services Block Grant program which would helpfill gaps left by other programs . Additionally , proposals such as FAMILY Act proposes subsidizing paid family leave which could greatly benefit struggling parents attempting to balance work responsibilities with raising their children .

While government initiatives attempt tackle these problems head on , they do not necessarily address underlying systemic power imbalances relating race class gender etc which leadt o disparate outcomes begin with Thus tacklingthese larger social injustices requires multi sectoralapproaches utilizing collaborations between public /privateand nonprofit organizations leaders community activistsand politicians all taking action towards creating more equitable societies

Overall while governmental policy attempts alleviatethese issues should continue be complementedby grassroots efforts create lasting change improvefamilyoutcomes across U S

This question has been answered.

Get Answer