EMPLOYMENT AT AN ADEQUATE WAGE FOR WORKING-AGE ADULTS
There has been an increase in the ranks of the working-poor - families in which at least one parent worked 26 or more weeks and family income fell below the federal poverty level.

Seeking Solutions
Support adults in obtaining full-time employment with affordable, quality child care and access to health care for all members of the family
Consider implementing a Supplemental Earned Income Tax Credit program

CHILDHOOD POVERTY
Despite a growing economy, there has been no significant change in childhood poverty. Scientific research demonstrates that poverty has a negative impact on children's health, development, and academic achievement - their future employability as adults.

Seeking Solutions
Support adults in gaining access to employment training
Support adults in gaining access to child care, health care, and nutrition programs
Support adults in obtaining parenting skills

EQUIPPING WORKING-AGE ADULTS AND FAMILIES TO BE SUPPORTIVE OF CHILDREN AND YOUTH AND OLDER CITIZENS
For children, youth, and older citizens to receive the support they need, the best approach may be to meet the needs of the adults and caregivers in their lives.

Seeking Solutions
Community support of adults in obtaining affordable parent support and parent training programs
Support of adults in obtaining affordable, accessible quality child care, adult day care, and respite care

QUALITY, AFFORDABLE AND ACCESSIBLE CHILD CARE
Quality care contributes to early brain development of children and toddlers, helps children successfully enter school, and provides safe, alternative activities for school-age children, youth, and teenagers during the
after-school hours.

Seeking Solutions
Promote community support of parks and recreation centers to encourage greater use
Promote educational opportunities for child care workers and youth development workers in early childhood and youth development issues and techniques
Support quality child care and after-school programs that are accessible, affordable and support positive youth development

PROMOTING HEALTHY LIFESTYLES
There is an increasing number of deaths of Oklahoma County residents from preventable diseases resulting from poor lifestyle choices - heart disease, stroke, cancer. These deaths result in the loss of productive members of the community. These illnesses consume a large percentage of health care costs.

Seeking Solutions
Support healthy lifestyle programs for children, youth and their families
Support health promotion and health education programs in a variety of settings

ADDRESSING THE NEEDS OF AN AGING POPULATION
The number of people 65+ is growing more rapidly than the rest of the population. There will be an increased need to address aging issues.

Seeking Solutions
Provide opportunities for older citizens to exercise competence and to be involved
Provide older citizens with assistance with independent living
Improve supplemental health care
Provide access to transportation
Community support of adult day care and respite care