Advocacy
2025-2026 Legislative Platform
The Center for Research & Advocacy at ForKids creates data-driven solutions to remove barriers for low-income families and supports leaders with actionable insights to inform policy and legislative decisions.

Our Focus Issues
Effective solutions to homelessness and poverty require bold action. We are committed to advocating for policies, programs, and reforms that promote safety, dignity, and opportunity, ensuring families have the support they need to overcome hardships and thrive. We actively work to create an immediate and lasting impact on these Focus Issues.
housing
Expand and maintain housing affordability.
We support the creation and expansion of dedicated funding sources, tax incentives, and practical zoning policies to promote the development of a diverse housing stock. We endorse the preservation of existing housing units and solutions to make current housing more affordable.
education & Childcare
Support children experiencing homelessness to close the achievement gap.
We advocate for programs and funding to address the unique needs of homeless and at-risk students through tutoring, transportation assistance, early childhood education, and family-centered support services. Expanding access to high-quality, affordable childcare and Pre-K —including before- and after-school care, and evening and weekend options— is essential to ensuring school readiness and long-term academic success. We encourage strong, collaborative partnerships between schools, non-profit organizations, and parents so every child can succeed academically.
SHELTER & HOMELESS SUPPORT SERVICES
Strengthen the safety net for families experiencing homelessness.
To address the growing crisis of homelessness, we promote effective outreach, eviction-prevention, shelter, rapid-rehousing and supportive housing. Policies should prioritize housing stability for families to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of children. In the absence of adequate shelter and because criminal charges present major barriers to being housed and employed, we oppose policies that criminalize homelessness.
economic mobility
Build pathways to economic prosperity for families.
To support families in their path to economic self-sufficiency, we must eliminate the “benefits cliff” that disincentivizes personal advancement. We support the implementation of pragmatic and gradual reductions in public benefits, raising eligibility thresholds for assistance programs, and increasing child tax credits to provide a viable pathway out of poverty.
health
Ensure access to comprehensive healthcare, nutritious food, and healthy communities.
We support the expansion of Medicaid coverage for low-income families and increased funding for community health centers in underserved areas to ensure access to timely, high-quality physical and mental healthcare. We also advocate for policies that expand access to nutritious food through food programs such as the Supplemental Nutritious Assistance Program (SNAP) and WIC.


A Roadmap for Action
Explore practical steps for addressing housing, education, and economic mobility challenges at every level of government. From boosting affordable housing to supporting families in crisis, this guide outlines actionable strategies to create lasting change for our communities.

Lifting Families. Transforming Communities.
Connect with our Advocacy Team
Learn more about how we plan to address these issues or set up a time for a tour and meeting.
