Poverty is related to every KIDS COUNT indicator. Children in poverty, especially those who experience poverty in early childhood and for extended periods, are more likely to have physical and behavioral health problems, experience difficulty in school, become teen parents, and earn less or be unemployed as adults. Children in poverty are less likely to be enrolled in a child care care center or preschool, more likely to attend schools that lack resources and rigor, and have fewer opportunities to participate in extracurricular activities. Income supports, such as child care assistance, health care (RIte Care), food assistance and tax credits, can help families with incomes below the federal poverty threshold meet their basic needs.
See our publications about economic well-being.
Factbook Indicators
The 2026 Rhode Island KIDS COUNT Factbook provides a statistical portrait of the status of Rhode Island’s children and youth.
By examining the best available data statewide and in Rhode Island’s 39 cities and towns, Rhode Island KIDS COUNT provides an information base that can result in more effective policy and community action on behalf of children and families.
Economic Well-Being indicators
Raising RI Coalition
The Raising RI Coalition is dedicated to lifting children out of poverty by increasing the RI Works* benefit and to breaking the cycle of poverty by providing parents with education and training opportunities leading to well-paying, secure jobs. Rhode Island KIDS COUNT is a Coalition member.
*RI Works is the state’s cash assistance program for children and their parents or caregivers and a work preparation program for the adults.
Advocacy
Monitor Legislation in the Rhode Island General Assembly.
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